A short film aimed at potential shoplifters was shown on TV screens in and around Norwich in the run up to Christmas.
The DVD, made by Norfolk Constabulary, seeks to make teenagers think twice about shoplifting as it highlights the consequences of what could happen if they commit a crime.
The Christmas period is when the majority of these types of offences are committed. Figures show there have been 77 offences of shop lifting in the last two weeks; a rise of 45 offences on the previous two weeks. The majority of shoplifters are teenagers aged 10-17, most of who do not realise they become criminalised by shoplifting.
Shoplifting: "We all pay for it" follows three shoplifting scenarios (played by actors). Each scenario highlights the processes and consequences an offender would go through if they were caught shoplifting.
PC Dave Simnor from City Centre retail theft unit said: "We want to raise awareness among the general public as the cost of shoplifting impacts on them as well as the offender and the shop owners. We need the public to work with us and report any shoplifting offence they see to shop staff or uniformed security".
"The Safer Neighbourhood Team is working closely with local retailers who will be displaying posters that warn potential shoplifters that they will be dealt with by the police. Officers will also be carrying out high-visibility patrols in and around the main shopping areas of Norwich, issuing leaflets and talking to shoppers."
The launch of the shoplifting DVD was part of the City Centre Respect Action Week which ran 8-12 December.
