Dear Members of the Community, As we approach the busy Christmas season, retail premises across Staffordshire (and beyond) typically experience increased footfall — and regrettably, a corresponding rise in shoplifting incidents. With more people shopping, more distractions, and often busier stores, this period can provide greater opportunity for offenders. Please read the guidance below — whether you run, work in, or simply visit shops — so that together we can reduce the risk of theft and respond effectively if something happens.
Why This Alert Matters Now - The run-up to Christmas brings higher customer volumes, packed stores, and more distractions — often leading to increased opportunities for theft or “grab and go” offences.
- Busy periods can make it harder for staff to maintain visibility, increasing the risk of shoplifting or theft.
- The more people know what to look for, the likelier we are to deter offenders or intervene safely — whether as staff, a vigilant customer, or a concerned witness.
Advice for Shops & Staff — Prevention & Safety - Store Setup & Visibility: Keep high-value items near the tills or in locked displays; ensure clear sight-lines; avoid overcrowding shelves with small, easily concealed items.
- Staff Engagement: Greet customers as they enter and be alert for suspicious behaviour — friendly acknowledgement is often enough to deter opportunistic theft.
- CCTV & Signage: Ensure CCTV cameras are functioning, visible, and clearly marked with signage — many offenders avoid stores where they believe they are visible / being monitored.
- Stock Control & Checks: Perform regular inventory checks so you can quickly spot when items go missing — especially useful with high-value or easily concealed goods.
- Use of Security Tags or Marked Stock: Where practical, attach security tags to vulnerable items; for small or high-value goods consider additional security measures or locked display cases.
- Staff Safety Policies: Under no circumstances should staff chase or physically confront a suspected shoplifter. Safety of staff and customers must always come first.
Advice for Members of the Public (Shoppers & Witnesses) - If you see unusual behaviour — e.g. someone looking nervous, hiding items, loitering in store after closing — take note: appearance, clothing, time, and direction travelled can all be helpful.
- Do not attempt to intervene or confront someone suspected of shoplifting — your safety is most important.
- If you like, discreetly alert staff or security. If the suspect leaves and you believe a theft has occurred, consider reporting what you saw.
- Witnesses play a key role — even small details (car registration, clothing, approximate time) can help the police identify suspects or link incidents.
How to Report Suspected Shoplifting or Theft (Staff, Businesses & Public) - If a crime is in progress or you believe someone is in danger — call 999 immediately.
- If it’s not an emergency (e.g. you’ve witnessed an offence, or you want to provide CCTV or other evidence) — call 101 or report online.
- Report online: You can submit a non-emergency crime or incident — including shoplifting — via the report form on the Staffordshire Police website: www.staffordshire.police.uk
- What to include when reporting: date, time, place (address or postcode), description of suspect(s), what happened, any evidence (CCTV, photos, witness contact).
Why Reporting Helps — For Everyone - Reporting helps the police build a clearer picture of patterns — repeat offenders, hot-spots, or frequent times of loss — which supports better policing and prevention.
- Your information may assist in protecting other businesses, staff, and shoppers, especially during the busy holiday season.
- Even if you are not a business owner — as a shopper or witness — your report or shared information can make a real difference.
Staffordshire Smart Alert remains available for community members who want to receive local crime-prevention tips and alerts. Thank you for staying alert and working with us to help make Staffordshire safer for everyone this festive season. |
