Private force prosecutes 300 shoplifters
The TelegraphThe courts treat the private prosecutions like any other by the CPS, which means that shoplifters can face up to seven years in jail for goods worth more than £200 and up to six months for those less than £200. “The important point is that we are on the scene within minutes of an offence or at the time of an offence, catching them in the act,” said Mr McKelvey. There is a big question over whether it is achievable.” Trespass notices TM Eye started by investigating and prosecuting counterfeit goods rackets, then five years ago launched My Local Bobby, private “police officers” uniformed with magenta vests and caps to provide a beat cover 24/7 for householders and businesses. The private “beat bobbies” play a “preventative” role by providing visible policing while the plainclothes detectives target catching shoplifters, 80 per cent of whom are prolific and often known to the retailers. The detectives will also serve prolific shoplifters with a trespass notice which means that, if they return, they will face a burglary charge for illegally entering premises.
History of this topic
Arrest shoplifters even if they steal goods under £200, says policing minister
The TelegraphDiscover Related
Northumbria shoplifter banned from all but three shops after racking up 171 convictions
The Independent
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