|
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. | 
