West Shields and Riverside

Shop Theft

We have strengthened our response to shop theft by updating protocols, increasing resources, and focusing on the most prolific offenders. Since October 2024, offenders linked to this crime trend have received more than 20 years in custodial sentences. Recent success has seen prolific offenders charged with hundreds of offences and in July a prison sentence of 30 weeks for one prolific offender. Although shop theft continues, we have the highest reduction percentage in the force of -17% against other areas.

Anti-social behaviour (ASB) in South Shields Town Centre and Interchange

Police and South Tyneside Council are working together to tackle crime and disorder in South Shields Town Centre. Joint patrols and targeted action have reported ASB over a 12month period of -9%. We have identified a small cohort of youths and adults who we believe are the catalyst for the majority of the ASB within the Town Centre. Specific multi-agency operations are being undertaken which includes the enforcement and supportive elements to tackle this ASB. Current activity has seen a joint approach with South Tyneside Council resulting in 16 community protection warnings and 11 community protection notices being served on adults who have caused ASB within the Town centre. Our partnership remains committed to keeping the area safe.