Police step up efforts to tackle shoplifting in Exeter in the run up to Christmas

Police in Exeter City Centre have been taking action to reduce shoplifting offences at this busy time of year for retailers. 

One of the tactics used is for plain clothes officers to mingle with Christmas shoppers and look out for potential thieves.  

Multi partnership operations happen on a regular basis in Exeter and the latest initiative was carried out by the North, East & West Devon Neighbourhood Support Team at the request of Exeter Sector Inspector Nathan Johnson and supported by local Exeter Neighbourhood Police Teams.

Sergeant Andrew Walton, who heads up the Neighbourhood Support Team, explained: “As part of the operation earlier this week a police officer was based in the Exeter City Council CCTV control room and worked in co-operation with local authority CCTV operators and the Exeter Businesses Against Crime (EBAC) Coordinator. Police officers on the ground also visited local stores and engaged with staff & security to promote crime prevention activity. 

“Within an hour and half on the ground plain clothes officers pro-actively engaged with and arrested two men who were later charged and dealt with by the courts for various offences including shoplifting and burglary.

“We regularly carry out Safer Business Action Days and welcome information and feedback from the public to help us target our efforts.”

Shoplifting offences nationally have been on the rise and police encourage businesses to report incidents and help build a better picture of the problem. Devon & Cornwall Police work with partners to combat retail crime and help protect retailers and their livelihoods. More advice is available on the Force website

Business crime prevention | Devon & Cornwall Police

Exeter is also one of the areas across Devon and Cornwall which has received extra Home Office funding to reduce anti-social behaviour and related offences. This means extra high visibility foot patrols by police officers, more engagement with the public and a concentrated focus in certain parts of the city, known as hotspots, at key times. Exeter Community Safety team was launched in summer 2024 and work in conjunction with local police officers to reduce crime and help make the community feel safer with their reassurance patrols.   

To read further updates about your local police teams in the city please follow Exeter Police on Facebook.

To check local events where you can meet the teams please visit Exeter City Centre | Your area | Devon and Cornwall Police | Devon & Cornwall Police