A one-day statewide retail crime operation has delivered positive results, helping to improve safety for shoppers, workers, and businesses across Tasmania.
The Synergy4Safety operation held yesterday saw Tasmania Police work closely with more than 80 retailers, with a focus on preventing retail crime and antisocial behaviour in shopping precincts.
Inspector John Toohey said police dealt with 37 people during the operation, including 23 arrests, 11 summonses issued and three young people referred to youth diversion.
"The emphasis was on early intervention and holding offenders accountable," he said.
"Retail theft was disrupted during the operation, with around $700 worth of stock recovered and returned to businesses. Police also conducted 75 wand searches across shopping areas, with no weapons located."
"Synergy4Safety is about police and retailers working together," Inspector Toohey said.
"When we combine our efforts, the outcomes are far stronger than working in isolation and the involvement of retailers was central to the success of the operation."
"Working directly with more than 80 businesses allowed police to respond to local concerns and target problem behaviours more effectively."
"This shared approach helps create safer shopping environments and sends a clear message that retail crime will not be tolerated."
Robert Mallett CEO of the Tasmanian Small Business Council said that "whilst to some, shop stealing may seem a petty crime, to the victim it is a major blow to confidence, profitability and morale."
"Tasmania Police's efforts in operations such as the one we saw yesterday goes a long way to provide confidence to businesses and the shopping public alike".
"The Tasmanian Small Business Council congratulates Tasmania Police for the effort and planning which has gone into yesterday's operation. Keeping businesses and their staff safe, apprehending people who would destroy the confidence of our everyday shoppers and providing support to the community has an immeasurable effect on the way we live our lives".
Members of the public can play a role in disrupting retail crime through Crime Stoppers Tasmania's Know Them? Name Them! campaign, which uses social media to help identify suspected shoplifters and reduce retail crime.
Crime Stoppers Tasmania Chair David Daniels said the joint initiative with Tasmania Police had helped identify over 100 suspects in a ten-month period.
"We are just asking for a name – if you know them – name them. Details are on our Facebook page and website – crimestopperstas.com.au, under open cases," Mr Daniels said.
"Retail crime costs us all in the end, and this is a chance for people to speak up to help police, local business, and the community as a whole."
Inspector Toohey said community information is vital in tackling retail crime.
"Tasmania Police will continue working with retailers through Synergy4Safety to help keep shopping areas safe across the state," he said.
"Anyone with information about theft or suspicious behaviour is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppers.com.au."
"Reports can be made anonymously."
