Article kindly supplied by Rich Moody, Eastleigh BID Crime Reduction Co-ordinator
A male who had repeatedly stolen from a store within the Eastleigh BID area was identified and nominated at the next Shopwatch meeting. His case was discussed and it was agreed he would be subject to a 12 month ban. A disclosure request was made to Police which included a photograph and personal details. His details were also added to DISC and everyone within Shopwatch was made aware of the male via DISC notifications.
The next day the male committed further shopliftings from stores within Eastleigh town centre. The Eastleigh BID team including the Town Rangers and the Business Crime Reduction Co-Ordinator worked closely with the stores and the Police to make sure that the shopliftings were well evidenced to allow for an arrest. Shopwatch members were alerted via DISC that the male was now wanted by Police.
Within 24 hours the male was seen within the BID area by a vigilant member of Shopwatch who had kept herself up to date with developments. CCTV were notified by the member using her radio to great effect and Police were called. The male was subsequently arrested and charged with the respective shopliftings.
This was a shining example of how Shopwatch has been effectively used, in collaboration with Eastleigh BID, DISC and the Police to help make Eastleigh town centre a safer place to visit and work.
Well Done to all those involved – you know who you are!
