A covert policing operation is under way across Epping and Brentwood in response to concerns raised by shopkeepers.
Neighbourhood officers in plain clothes are targeting shoplifting hotspots to catch repeat offenders and reduce theft.
Sergeant Jamie Shepherd, who is leading the operation, said: “We’ve been working with retailers in Epping, Loughton, Waltham Abbey and Brentwood to reduce incidents of theft and tackle repeat offenders.
“They have given us access to their systems, which allows us to quickly identify suspects, and we’ve delivered training and streamlined the reporting system.
“By having officers in plain clothes, we’ve been able to intercept people who’ve taken goods without paying for them, and it also acts as a significant deterrent, as the person watching you fill your bag could be a covert officer.”
Since the operation began, shoplifting offences have dropped by 16 per cent across the two districts, with 75 fewer incidents reported in the past three months compared to the previous quarter.
Eight individuals have been issued community behaviour orders (CBOs), which can ban them from certain shops or require engagement with addiction treatment services.
Breaching a CBO is a criminal offence and can result in up to five years in prison or a fine.
Sgt Shepherd said the results show the value of targeted enforcement.
He said: “Since the operation started, we’ve seen a reduction in offending, and in Epping we’ve been able to dedicate additional time to the issue thanks to funding secured through the Epping Community Safety Partnership.”
