Retail Crime on the Rise: Police Supporting National Week of Action in Devon and Cornwall

Devon and Cornwall Police are stepping up efforts to tackle retail crime in response to a 37% rise in shoplifting across the UK. As part of Safer Business Action Week, which runs from 14th to 20th October, the force is focusing on improving relationships with local businesses and providing support to help them stay safe.

Safer Business Action Week

Organised by the National Business Crime Centre (NBCC), this week-long event aims to bring police, business owners, and security staff together to tackle the growing issue of shoplifting and other retail crimes. The goal is to create long-lasting partnerships that will help protect businesses across the region.

Assistant Chief Constable Glen Mayhew said the police are committed to protecting local businesses and will be targeting specific areas with patrols to directly combat offenders. “By taking a collaborative and proactive approach, we can deploy resources to specific locations on patrol and directly target offenders,” he said.

Crime Prevention Efforts

Joe Champness, the Crime Prevention and Business Crime Lead for Devon and Cornwall Police, highlighted the importance of building strong connections with business owners. Police officers will be working closely with businesses to raise awareness about crime prevention and encourage reporting. Pop-up events and high-visibility patrols are planned throughout the week to engage with staff and offer crime prevention advice.

“There are many benefits to connecting directly with business owners and employees,” Joe said, adding that the work being done during this week will continue throughout the year.

Impact on Local Communities

Businesses across Devon and Cornwall have been affected by a range of crimes, from theft and burglary to abusive behaviour towards staff. Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez emphasised the crucial role businesses play in local communities, stating, “Businesses are the lifeblood of our communities, providing employment, innovation, training and aspiration.”

Alison pointed out the challenges faced by businesses, particularly from organised crime targeting rural areas and counterfeit goods undermining legitimate traders. She confirmed that a focus on theft will be included in her upcoming Police and Crime Plan for 2025-29.

For more information on how businesses can protect themselves, visit the Devon & Cornwall Police Business Crime Prevention page.

To stay informed about crime prevention in your area, businesses can sign up to the Devon & Cornwall Alert messaging system.