Shoplifters targeted in Christmas crackdown across York

Our Chief Constable, Tim Forber, has been out on the streets of York today leading the drive to tackle shoplifters.

On one of the busiest trading days of the year, the last Friday before Christmas, our Chief along with a number of officers were out and about in the city centre and the outer suburbs for a focused blitz on shoplifting related offences.

A variety of tactics were used which included officers in plain clothes (including our Chief), detection from specialist ANPR technology and a surveillance ring around the outskirts of the city.

ACC Moseley stopping a vehicle in York

We worked with businesses and other partners to provide a visible deterrent to would-be offenders and reassurance to shoppers and residents.

Two hours into the operation our Force Control Room received a report of a shop theft from Aldi on Fulford Road. The store passed details of a vehicle which was potentially involved and a short time later officers located it at a linked address. Inside the vehicle was various food items with labels on. A woman in her 50s was arrested on suspicion of shop theft, she currently remains in police custody.

In July this year we launched our new digital evidence portal NICE Investigate which has streamlined the investigative process for retail crime and made it easier for businesses to provide us with evidence.

( A proactive car patrol taking place in York city centre)

Chief Constable Tim Forber said: “Shoplifting costs businesses and the economy millions of pounds every year. It is not a victimless crime - businesses struggle when hit by shoplifters and we shoppers feel the impact when businesses are forces to raise prices to compensate for their losses.

“Today’s operation shows how much of a priority it is for the force, the message is clear, we will not tolerate theft in York and North Yorkshire.

"As we move closer towards Christmas, I would like to remind people that policing doesn’t stop for the holidays. We remain operational across the festive period. If you need us we will be there. I wish everyone in York and North Yorkshire a happy and safe Christmas.”