Shoplifting has a significant impact on Frome businesses, and the wider community. In many cases, theft is linked to wider issues such as organised crime, substance misuse, and anti-social behaviour. This is why the Frome Neighbourhood police team will be prioritising tackling this crime type.

Our approach includes targeted patrols in known hotspot areas, proactive offender management, and intelligence-led policing to tackle the onwards handling of stolen goods.

We are committed to working with retailers, businesses and partner agencies to identify offenders, prevent repeat offending, and support businesses affected by theft.

We encourage the public to report shoplifting and suspicious behaviour. Information provided by the community helps us build an accurate picture of offending and enables us to direct resources where they are most needed.

Actions

• 4 November 2026
  

  Spot a shoplifter

  Shoplifters can be spotted by the behaviour. Here are a few signs to look out for.

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  There is no stereotype to describe a shoplifter. Some are regular or habitual thieves; others are first-timers who may be acting under peer pressure or threats from others.

  Many shoplifters dress smartly and engage with you or your staff, as they attempt to blend in with other shoppers and avoid detection.

  Signs to look out for

  There are some common behaviours that may help to identify a shoplifter, such as:

  • spending more time watching staff or looking for security cameras, rather than shopping
  • wearing unsuitable clothing for the weather, such as a heavy coat on a warm day, to conceal items
  • refusing offers of help or assistance from yourself or your staff
  • regularly entering your store and never buying anything
  • appearing nervous or shaky, for example, when checking a watch or bag
  • picking items up without showing any genuine interest of buying them

  Keep an eye out for anyone who brings in a foil-lined bag, as it might be used to try and conceal goods with security tags. Obviously that is not a sign in its own right, but it is worth monitoring.

  Also be aware of people entering in a group, especially if one or two members start to cause a scene. This may be a ploy to distract staff, while others try to steal an item unnoticed.

  Shoplifter in action

  It is a good idea to have a code word that can alert all staff to the presence of a potential shoplifter.

  Always be sure someone has taken something before you try and speak to them and remember, you are legally and commercially responsible for your behaviour.

  If you feel it is safe to approach them, use a neutral tone to ask them politely to put it back and step away if you feel threatened.

  You should ban known offenders from your retail store and work with your policing team to keep records up to date.

  Call 999 if you spot someone shoplifting.

• 16 October 2026
  

  A prolific shoplifter responsible for a significant number of offences across the local area has been arrested and remanded in custody pending sentencing.

  The offender’s extensive history of repeat offending has had a considerable impact on local businesses. By securing a remand, we anticipate a significant reduction in shoplifting offences in the area, helping to improve safety and confidence for businesses and the wider community.

  We will continue to work closely with retailers and partner agencies to identify and target those responsible for acquisitive crime.

  The local team are exploring options of civil enforcement conditions to enhance our offender management post release. This positive outcome demonstrates our commitment to tackling repeat offenders and reducing crime in our communities.