MP Bob Seely has welcomed the news that Isle of Wight Police will be adopting a zero-tolerance to retail crime.
Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones and Chief Constable Scott Chilton have today reiterated their commitment to answer calls from business owners to crack down on shop theft.
They have unveiled how they are turning the tide on retail crime and shoplifting, reporting an 83.3% increase in outcomes for victims.
They said more offenders are being charged and appearing before the court each week with facial recognition technology helping to quickly identify suspects caught on camera so that action can be taken quickly.
The force has been working closer with the retail community to gather evidence on the most prolific repeat offenders which is enabling officers to improve their response and service to victims.
This has increased the reporting of shop theft, which the Chief and Commissioner say is a clear sign of increased confidence in the policing response.
Welcoming the approach, MP Bob Seely said: “I welcome this zero-tolerance approach to stop offenders from spreading fear and causing harm in our communities.
“Retail staff should not have to put up with threats and abuse from these offenders and everyone should feel safe in their communities.
“I am pleased that the policing approach is changing. We now have 30 more police officers on the Island, and they are becoming increasingly more visible and connected with communities. It’s what Islanders said they wanted and I am glad it’s happening.”
