Pauline Jorgensen, Parliamentary candidate for Earley and Woodley, has pressed Thames Valley Police on what they are doing to stop shoplifting in the new constituency.
Following a presentation by the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), Matthew Barber, and the Chief Constable Jason Hogg, Pauline raised concerns from business owners in Woodley, asking if there would be an increased police presence in the area.
Pauline asked: “Talking to shopkeepers I have been told that there is a problem with shoplifting in Woodley, I understand that there will be more local police resources. Will we see more in Woodley shopping precinct where they can respond quickly to issues? Are there any other actions the Council or local communities can take?”
Responding, Matthew Barber said that it was important to identify repeat offenders who account for around 65 per cent of shoplifting offences. He also said that the police force were working with retailers to make it easier for them to submit evidence, and to work in partnership with business owners to work together in crime prevention.
The Chief Constable highlighted that by the end of this month, police will be using facial recognition technology on past CCTV footage to identify shoplifters, and that this would lead to more offenders being brought to justice.
Commenting after the meeting Pauline said:
“It is important to stop shoplifters before they become prolific offenders. And it is important that businesses have confidence in the police that if they report a crime action will be taken.
“I am pleased that the police have a renewed focus on tackling shoplifting and have been working in partnership with businesses to encourage more reporting and undertaking more crime prevention measures.
“The police do excellent work locally and an increased police presence is also welcome news, as it will both act as a deterrent to would-be offenders and give greater confidence to businesses and shoppers.
“If I become the MP for Woodley and Earley, I will continue this partnership with the Police and Crime Commissioner and the wider Thames Valley Police, championing residents’ concerns and working to deliver for them.”
