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Shoplifting is ‘out of control’ according to a national report from the British Retail Consortium (BRC).

Whilst West Mercia bucks the national trend with shoplifting falling by 5% since 2023 with significant decreases in Shropshire (-15%) and North Worcestershire (-12%).

Listening, acting and delivering on calls from business owners and communities, PCC John Campion has had an ongoing focus on tackling retail crime.

In September 2024, the PCC funded the launch of ten town centre teams increasing visibility and accessibility whilst driving down crime and working closely with retailers to tackle their concerns.

Alongside this investment, the PCC has invested in ‘hotspot policing’ patrols. More than 20,000 of these data-driven foot patrols have taken place across West Mercia which target resources in specific high-crime locations, including town centres.

Shoplifting has also been a continuous focus for the PCC through his work to support and challenge the Chief Constable with regular scrutiny and monitoring of figures.

Work is also taking place in the prevention space, with the rollout of SmartWater and other measures to protect businesses through the PCC funded We Don’t Buy Crime project.

PCC John Campion said: “Retail crime may be out of control in some places but not in West Mercia and that’s testament to the continued focus it has received by senior leaders across the force.

“Whilst figures are going in the right direction and I am reassured that shoplifting is being taken seriously, I am under no illusion that it is job done.  

“I will continue to ensure the views of local businesses and residents are listened to and action is taken whilst supporting the hard-working police officers with the resources they need to continue investigating incidents, identifying offenders and bringing them to justice.”