In the know

Your local Safer Neighbourhood Team have been working hard to tackle shoplifting across Mole Valley. Below are some of the fantastic results they have achieved recently.

+ In September 2024, officers successfully secured a Community Protection Notice (CPN) against a 34-year-old man following multiple reports of theft across the borough. The CPN ensures he is banned from specific stores in Dorking town centre. Since the CPN was served, Police have had no reported shoplifting's by this individual. This example demonstrates how this tactic, used to prevent crime, is effective against those who shoplift.

+ Police recently received multiple reports of a group of young people persistently visiting shops in North Leatherhead and stealing alcohol, sandwiches, sweets and soft drinks. The Safer Neighbourhood Team began an investigation which led to them arresting three people and inviting a further three in for interview. Following that, all six were banned from the stores or given bail conditions to not enter the stores. Since this, the stores have not reported any further similar incidents, and they have also reported that ASB linked to the thefts has decreased. 
 

+To effectively investigate shoplifting and apprehend offenders, it is important for the staff who work in the stores to know how to provide us with the best information to assist us. Your Safer Neighbourhood Team identified this and worked with local stores to increase the quality of reports when describing the offence and suspects. They explained how important it is for staff to know how to access and provide CCTV, itemised receipts of what was stolen, and to provide a supporting statement. All of this helps officers identify patterns and individuals and can eventually lead to arrests.
 

+ As part of our commitment to disrupt shoplifting, your local Safer Neighbourhood Team have increased their patrols and visits to local stores which in turn also deters shoplifters. The team are committed to carrying out monthly targeted operations at the stores who have made recent reports of thefts. We continue to work with business owners to prevent thefts and further build community relationships. We know shoplifting has a significant impact on businesses and can leave shop staff feeling fearful and vulnerable.

These results demonstrate our commitment to our retail crime strategy which you can read more about by clicking here.
 

If you are concerned about shoplifting in your local area, you can report a non-urgent crime by visiting our website. You can also make an anonymous report to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. If you see a crime in progress, call 999.