Bust on Shoplifters: Nine Arrested in Week-Long Crackdown
Police went undercover and in uniform last week to snag shoplifters across Canterbury and nearby areas. From Monday 16 to Sunday 22 October 2023, Neighbourhood Policing Teams teamed up with local shops on Canterbury High Street, Sturry Road, Whitstable, and Herne Bay to clamp down on crime.
Teamwork Nets Nine Arrests During Safer Business Week
The sting coincided with Safer Business Action Week, a nationwide blitz led by the National Business Crime Centre. In total, nine suspected thieves were hauled in during the 7-day operation.
Officers didn’t just arrest suspects; they also advised stores on boosting theft prevention and how to help investigations if crimes happen again.
Top Cops Vow to Keep Businesses Safe
Inspector Paul Stoner, of Canterbury Community Safety Unit, said: “My officers are determined to protect shops and other businesses around the district from the attention of persistent thieves.
A week of working with shops has seen us offering advice to staff, gathering evidence and arresting and charging those suspected of stealing. This is always ongoing, with officers from our Beat Team and Neighbourhood Task Force continuing to identify and track down repeat offenders.”
Who Got Busted?
- Danny Myers, 47, of River View, Canterbury – Charged with theft from a store in Marshwood Close. Bailed to appear in court next month.
- Steven McGinty, 36, from Little Chequers, Ashford – Charged with stealing alcohol and clothing from Canterbury stores. Court appearance scheduled for this week.
- Josh Norton, 37, no fixed address – Charged with two supermarket thefts on Oxford Street, Whitstable. Bailed to appear in court next month.
- Joshua Phillips, 23, of Penshurst Close, Canterbury – Charged with multiple shop thefts near Sturry Road. Set to face magistrates next month.
