News
Police and traders sticking together
Dated: 13 Apr 2012
[View Full Size]Police and traders in South Tyneside are sticking together to deter thieves.
Businesses in South Shields who are part of Shopwatch are being given window stickers bearing the scheme's logo.
Shopwatch members and police share information about active thieves so that store security and staff can be on the lookout for any suspicious behaviour and quickly inform the police if they need help.
Shoplifters or troublesome customers can be excluded from a Shopwatch store. The banning also extends to the rest of the shops in the scheme.
It's hoped the stickers will make thieves think twice about entering the store, knowing it's part of Shopwatch.
Acting Inspector Nick Gjorven said: "The stores in South Shields are enthusiastic about being part of Shopwatch and are keen to provide information to police to stop thieves which should in turn help with their profitability.
"Shopwatch is designed to help staff pass on concerns about problem customers from shop to shop and allows them to contact police if a crime is in progress.
"We want everyone to enjoy their shopping experience and I hope shoppers feel reassured that the minority of people who go into shops and make a nuisance of themselves, either by stealing or being disorderly, are being watched and will be dealt with."