UK gripped by epidemic of another kind as shoplifting at record high while police turn blind eye

In an analysis of official figures covering England and Wales, the Liberal Democrats reveal a concerning trend with more than 200,000 shoplifting cases left unresolved in the past 12 months. The party asserts that the government is failing to effectively combat this escalating crime wave. The statistics indicate that, out of 362,809 cases examined, a staggering 205,676 shoplifting incidents concluded without identifying a suspect from August to July. A Home Office spokeswoman counters, stating that charging rates for shoplifting have risen by “almost a third” in the past year. Craig Beaumont, representing the Federation of Small Businesses, expresses dismay over the situation, highlighting the impact on local small and independent businesses. He emphasizes that the lack of police investigation and prosecution contributes to an increase in organised shoplifting and threats to staff. Chief Constable Amanda Blakeman of the National Police Chiefs’ Council acknowledges the damaging impact of retail crime and underscores the commitment of law enforcement to address offenders and support retailers. However, Liberal Democrat home affairs spokesman Alistair Carmichael criticises the Conservative government, asserting that as unsolved shoplifting cases surge, criminal gangs go unchecked while shopkeepers are left vulnerable. Carmichael advocates for a practical approach, emphasising the necessity of putting police back on the streets and ensuring thorough investigations. In response, a Home Office spokeswoman reiterates the government’s commitment to combat shoplifting, labeling it a blight on communities and emphasizing a zero-tolerance approach by the police. As shoplifting continues to plague communities, the debate intensifies over the effectiveness of current measures and the need for proactive strategies to curb this escalating crime epidemic.