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In Oxford city centre, in a pilot scheme, police are to issue £80 fines to some offenders caught shoplifting.
The retail link radio network enables police and shop staff to share information and the system is directly linked to the city centre CCTV.
What they say
City Centre Inspector, Graham Sutherland, said: “As with any busy shopping centre, shoplifting can be an issue. Oxford Police City Centre Unit has a good relationship with shop staff and the city manager. We will be giving the £80 fines to low value thefts where it is appropriate. This is the same as a conviction and will go on the offender’s record. Those committing more serious offences will continue to be arrested and dealt with in custody. Fixed penalty notices provide us with a useful alternative, freeing up officers time so that they can get back on the streets to fight crime.
“Issuing tickets is an effective way for us to deal with low-level offences by hitting offenders where it hurts – the wallet.”
