Shopwatch relaunched

A scheme to help crackdown on shoplifting in the town centre has been relaunched.

The Shopwatch scheme sees businesses coming together to securely share information to help stop shoplifters before they get the chance to steal.

Initially 15 town centre business were supplied with radios and phones, thanks to funding from the TVCA, so they could quickly share information about suspicious activity with each other and the police.

The scheme has proved so successful it has been expanded to include more than 40 businesses and it is hoped out of town businesses will also sign up.

As well as the radio and phone communication, posters have been put in businesses’ windows around the town to act as a deterrent.

Amanda Riley, the council’s cabinet member for stronger communities, said: “Shoplifting can damage businesses, especially our small independents, and can lead to an increase in prices for the rest of us.

“I am delighted that Shopwatch has been relaunched in the town centre and has already made an impact. I am sure it will be a real deterrent to potential shoplifters as they will know they are being watched and information is being shared.

“By working together, and with the police, we can make sure the town centre continues to be a safe and pleasant place for everyone to visit.”

Chief Inspector Jim O’Connor, from Darlington Police, said: “Retail crime is far from being a victimless crime; it hurts businesses who must grapple with higher costs and lost stock, resulting in an increase in prices for us all.   

“The Shopwatch scheme is an excellent initiative which allows businesses to quickly share information on active offenders within the area, stopping potential shoplifters in their tracks.”

Police and crime commissioner, Joy Allen, said: “Everyone needs to play a part in reducing business crime. It is so important that if you’re in a shop and you see something suspicious, report it and help protect that business. This intelligence helps us catch those responsible, bring them to justice and ensure County Durham and Darlington remains a safe place to work and live.

“Safer business is one of my main priorities in my police and crime plan, so I am delighted that ShopWatch is being relaunched with the force to provide an extra layer of protection for our local businesses.”