Folkestone Police Launch Crackdown on Shoplifters and Criminals
Plain clothes and uniformed officers from Folkestone’s Community Safety Unit hit the town centre on Wednesday, 8 May 2024. Their mission? To deter thieves and catch crooks red-handed – working closely with local shops to keep crime at bay.
Quick Arrests Follow Sharp-Eyed Patrols
During the patrols, officers spotted a 37-year-old man wanted for stealing steaks from a supermarket in April. He was swiftly arrested, charged with theft and assaulting an emergency worker, and sent to court the very next day.
A 28-year-old man dodging probation was also nabbed in the town and taken to court.
Drug Busts and Shoplifting Stings
- Three individuals were stopped and searched, resulting in the arrest of a 31-year-old woman suspected of dealing cocaine.
- Another person received a community resolution for cannabis possession.
- Even an eight-year-old girl was caught shoplifting cosmetics but was spoken to alongside her family and made to return the items.
Community Support and Future Patrols Planned
Throughout the day, officers met with shop staff, offering crime prevention advice and addressing concerns. Detective Inspector James Wyles said:
“It was good to hear from businesses around the town, picking up information that will help us in future and providing advice to prevent thefts. The extra officers deployed led to the arrest of one suspected shoplifter and saw two others arrested for separate offences.”
He added: “We’ll continue operations of this kind to protect local shops and keep the town centre safe and vibrant.”
