Three suspected shoplifters arrested after clothing haul found

We have arrested three suspected shoplifters in Stafford after a car containing suspected stolen clothing was found in a supermarket car park.

A 40-year-old woman from Brinsford, a 38-year-old and a 21-year-old woman, both from Wolverhampton, were arrested yesterday (Wednesday 29 April) after an eagle-eyed PCSO spotted a suspicious vehicle in Stafford town centre. The vehicle had been linked to high-value thefts across south Staffordshire and Tamworth.

Our county proactive and rural crime team (CPART) then identified the vehicle on Asda car park. Two of the suspects had entered a nearby Primark store, while the other suspect was waiting in the driver’s seat of the vehicle.

Inside the car, hundreds of pounds worth of suspected stolen clothing was found.

All three women were arrested on suspicion of theft from a shop.

Chief Inspector Saqib Butt, of Stafford borough local policing team, said: “Thanks to the fast-thinking of the PCSO, CPART were alerted to the suspicious vehicle and the individuals.

“When officers looked inside the car, it was full of suspected stolen clothing worth hundreds if not thousands of pounds.

“We are intensifying our proactive work across Stafford borough to protect our communities and local businesses and officers are determined to identify and take action against anyone found responsible.”

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To report anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.