POLICE in Taunton are on a mission to crack-down on shoplifting and retail crime in the county town, and are asking for your help to do so.
They are appealing the public to help identify two women police would like to speak to in relation to a shoplifting offence in Marks and Spencer’s on Tuesday August 5.
Several items of women’s clothing were taken from the Taunton store at 11.55am. Officers hope the two women can help them with their enquiries.
If you recognise either of the women involved (pictures 1, 2 and 3), or have any information about this offence, police are urging you to call them on the 101 number or email PCSO Matthew Lester via our website, quoting reference 80651/14.
** TO SEE A CLOSE-UP OF THE PICTURES, SCROLL DOWN TO THE END OF THE ARTICLE **
We are also hoping to identify a man who we want to speak to about two thefts (pictures 4,5, 6 & 7).
In the first incident, alcohol was stolen from Morrison’s near Dellars Wharf in Taunton on Monday August 6 at 7.40pm.
In the second incident, nearly £200 worth of food and alcohol was stolen from Marks and Spencer on Saturday August 9.
The suspect was chased by police officers down the High Street after he fled the store.
If you have information about these crimes, please contact PCSO Matthew Lester and quote either 80989/14 or 81814/14.
On Thursday 7 August, at 2pm three sets of headphones, worth £268, were stolen from Maplin’s in County Walk.
Police are trying to identify three people, two men and one woman, they would like to speak to.
They also want to speak to them regarding an incident in Staples earlier in the morning.
Do you recognise them (pictures 8, 9, 10 & 11)?
If you know who they are or have any information regarding this crime, please contact PCSO Adam Moore quoting reference number 81755/14.
Sgt Neil Kimmins from Taunton Police Station said: “We suspect the people involved in these offences are regularly involved in shop thefts, not just in Taunton but around Somerset.
“Many people think that shoplifting, particularly from larger stores or chains, is a victimless crime.
"However, that’s not the case. It affects us all.
"Prices rise to cover losses and increased insurance premiums and it has a detrimental effect on both the local and national economy.
“If you buy stolen goods from someone, you could arrested for handling stolen property.
"I would encourage people to let us know if they recognise any of the people in these CCTV images.”
Contact police online at www.avonandsomerset.police.uk or by calling 101.
You can also call independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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