Leigh police step up patrols in town centre targeting shoplifters

GMP officers have been targeting anti-social behaviour in the town, including seizing drugs and alcohol and stop-searches of those suspected as having been involved in a crime. 

As well as this, five of the 'most problematic shoplifters in the town centre' have been arrested and charged, resulting in prison sentences and criminal behaviour orders. 

In recent weeks, a public spaces protection order has been enforced in the town.

It provides officers with enhanced powers to tackle including shoplifting, public intoxication, harassment, and other inappropriate behaviour in public. 

Officers can ask people suspected of taking part in such activities to disperse, in order to assist in the prevention of any offences. 

Throughout December, extra patrols have been implemented due to funding from the Community Safety Partnership.

Some of the work has come alongside Wigan Council's anti-social behaviour team. 

Members of the public have also been given their own tools and equipment to tackle crime – from bells for handbags to timer switches.

Inspector Sam Davies, from GMP’s Wigan district, said: “I am really pleased to be able to highlight the positive work being done in the area by the local policing team in conjunction with the wider community safety partnership.

“In a little over two weeks, we have seen five individuals imprisoned, countless contact cards issued relating to anti-social behaviour, and many valuable interactions with members of the public and our local businesses.

Five problematic shoplifters have been arrested and imprisoned (Image: GMP)

“I believe this sends out a clear message to those that wish to cause disruption within our community and seek to damage the quality of life for law abiding people going about their daily business.

"This will not be tolerated here in Leigh and we will always seek positive action through the criminal justice system whenever possible.”

Cllrr Keith Cunliffe, deputy leader of Wigan Council, said: “The PSPO in Leigh town centre gives Wigan Council and GMP the powers to respond to problems and nuisances in the area, ensuring local people can use and enjoy public spaces free from anti-social behaviour.

“By being out and about in Leigh town centre, providing items to prevent crime, talking with residents and visitors, and operating alongside officers from Greater Manchester Police we are working to tackle that small minority who think they can get away with anti-social behaviour in our town centres.” 

GMP says officers will be increasing patrols in the town centre next year, both as part of their own crews and alongside the council’s ASB teams. 

If you need to make a non-emergency crime report, call 101 or use GMP's Live Chat service at www.gmp.police.uk. Always dial 999 in an emergency.