Following an increase in reported shop lifting offences this year, in Wilmslow, Alderley Edge and Handforth local officers from the Wilmslow Beat Management Team have been focusing on this problem and utilising technology and intelligence gathering to identify and target repeat offenders.
In January there were 35 shoplifting offences reported and 33 in February. A reduction was then seen in March with 21 offences reported.
A police spokesperson said "This increased activity led to the arrest and charge of two prolific offenders targeting the town centre. Kevin Ellis, aged 33, of Hurley Drive, Cheadle Hulme was charged with 10 offences of shoplifting and received a 16 week prison sentence and Robert Hynd, aged 41, of Beech Avenue, Gatley has been charged with 4 shop lifting offences in the town."
Robert Hynd appeared in Stockport Magistrates Court on Wednesday, 19th April. For three offences he received a Community Order, was ordered to undertake rehab activity, complete 200 hours of unpaid work and pay compensation.
A police spokesperson said "Local officers will continue to monitor shop lifting offences in the area and robustly deal with any offenders. Shoppers are asked to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to Cheshire Police by calling 101."
