Some shoplifters 'feel they can rob shops with impunity', a policing chief has warned.
Katy Bourne, the national lead for shoplifting at the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners, said more robust police interventions and 'meaningful criminal justice measures' are needed to prevent reoffending.
Shoplifting hit a record high in 2024, with the number of offences surpassing 500,000 for the first time, up 20 per cent from 2023.
'What on earth has happened to our high streets and our city centres?' Ms Bourne, the police and crime commissioner for Sussex, asked.
'Why do some people feel they can rob shops with impunity and abuse and assault staff without any fear of retribution?'
