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Shoplifters facing blitz
SHOPKEEPERS in Buxton have said enough is enough after increasing thefts blamed on drug and alcohol addiction have plagued the town centre.
Now they are fighting back with exclusion orders for persistent prolific offenders whose only intention is to go out and steal from retailers.
Diana Golding, Centre Manager of the Spring Gardens Shopping Centre and also chairman of Buxton Retailers Against Crime, said: "Buxton's retailers have decided that enough's enough, and have joined together with the police to put an end to retail related crime in the town.
"We hope that more and more businesses will get involved so that as time goes on there won't be anywhere for offenders to go in Buxton."
Under the scheme, offenders who cause nuisance, distress and harassment can be barred from all the shops who are members of BRAC for a period of time.
She said: "Nobody is going after a first-time offender, a juvenile or a confused old person.
"What we are trying to stop is the persistent prolific offenders who are out every day with the intention of stealing, usually to feed an addiction of some sort."
The Buxton Safer Neighbourhood Team and BRAC are hoping to encourage more shops and businesses to get involved in the partnership to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour.
"Small and big business can all work together to make a big difference," said Ms Golding.
"The more members we have the more effective we can be."
BRAC members can join a retail radio scheme, so they can communicate with each other and the police about any potential problems, to help prevent crime and catch offenders.
Photographs of any persistent offenders operating in the town, along with a description of their activities, are also sent out to members.
Retailers will be able to find out more at a special event at Buxton police station on Monday, July 13, between 5.30 and 7.30pm.
PCSO Matthew Cox, of the Buxton Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: "It's a chance for businesses to find out how they can help reduce retail crime, about the benefits of a radio link-up and how to create a safer environment for their staff and customers."
There will also be a guest speaker and a raffle, with the chance for two businesses to win a free radio for six months which is worth around 150.
* To book a place call either PCSO Matthew Cox or PCSO Michaela Daniels on 0345 123 33 33 or email buxton.neighbourhoods@derbyshire.pnn.police.uk.
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Saturday 04 February 2012
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