Operation Carol launched in Scarborough

Police in Scarborough have launched proactive and highly visible patrols in the run up to Christmas to combat retail crime and provide a reassuring presence for shoppers.  

Running throughout December, Operation Carol will see officers and PCSOs from the Scarborough Neighbourhood Policing Team working closely with retailers and community partners to enhance safety and security in the busy shopping areas.  

PC Kirsty Masters, the Town Centre Beat Manager, said:

“We’re using several tactics to deter and disrupt retail crime in the run up to Christmas, including increased high visibility patrols to provide a reassuring presence for shoppers and retailers alike.

“We also play an active role in the town’s Shopwatch scheme which involves effective partnership working with staff from stores and businesses. This allows for quick communication and a fast police response to deal with any retail crime or anti-social behaviour issues that arise.”

The Neighbourhood Policing Team is patrolling alongside Community Safety Officers from Scarborough’s Community Impact Team to engage with and assist some of the more vulnerable shopping locations. 

True team work: Rhian Buglass, Senior Community Safety Partnership Officer with Scarborough Borough Council and PC Kirsty Master, Beat Manager for Scarborough Town Centre

Sound as a pound: Positive engagement with festive shoppers to make them feel safe and secure in the town centre

Checking in with retailers

Utilising other teams within North Yorkshire Police, Operation Carol will also see the Roads Policing Group actively on the hunt for travelling criminals who may make the mistake of coming to Scarborough to commit crime during the festive period.

Neighbourhood Policing Team Inspector Rebecca Lalor said:

“Through Operation Carol, we aim to support our community and the businesses within by using previous reports and community intelligence to identify where our patrols are needed so we can be in the right place at the right time.

“We’re continuing to work closely with our retail partnerships and our colleagues in the Roads Policing Group to ensure that the economic impact caused by retail crime is reduced in Scarborough and the surrounding areas.

“More than anything, we want residents, visitors, and retailers in Scarborough to feel safe and enjoy their Christmas shopping in the town centre.”