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Tandridge Safer Neighbourhood Team has been closely working with local businesses in order to tackle retail crime and shoplifting offences across the borough. In September, a 37-year-old man was convicted following a series of shoplifting offences in the Co-Op on Townend Road in Caterham. Over a two week period between August and September, he stole multiple items ranging from alcohol and ready meals with a value of hundreds of pounds. The staff reported this to police and PC Kevin Stimson was quick to act, working closely with the Co-Op to gather evidence from CCTV cameras and taking witness statements. PC Stimson was also in close consultation with the anti-social behaviour team to consider which civil ASB legislation can be used alongside criminal proceedings. The suspect was arrested, charged and subsequently pleaded guilty at court to four counts of shoplifting and was given a fine. His guilty plea triggered a recall to prison as the man was already serving a suspended sentence at the time. Furthermore, he was issued with a Community Protection Notice that will prohibit him from returning to the shop for a year. Last month, a further two people were charged with shoplifting offences in Caterham. If you or your business is victim of a crime, please report it to us by sending us a direct message or call 999 if it’s an emergency. | 
