[P]olice in Carlisle are continuing to tackle shoplifting in the city centre with the help of local retailers this festive season.
Historically shoplifting offences increase in the build up to Christmas. In order to prevent another year of shoplifting increases police are working closely with local stores and the Shop Watch community to catch thieves.
Sergeant Nick Oliver said: “Shoplifting is far from a victimless crime and can cause real harm to local businesses.
“We are aware of the historical increase in shoplifting during the festive period. We work closely with retailers throughout the year. We also have a Shop Watch community that can quickly notify police and other stores of incidents that happen.
“Identifying those who look to shoplift is key, by working together we can catch offenders and build an investigation which will put them before the courts.
“Officers and PCSOs will be in the city centre patrolling, some in plain clothes, to observe and stop offenders.
“The public can also help stop thieves from profiting by reporting information to police.”