Five people charged after thefts from multiple retail stores across Skegness
Five people have been charged with a total of 27 counts of shop theft and associated matters in Skegness following a weekend of targeted police action.
Lincolnshire Police said that shops affected over a two week period included Savers, Boots, heron Foods, Aldi, Lidl, Greggs, B&M, Costcutter and the Co-op.
A force spokesperson said: “Targeting prolific shop theft offenders is important because a small number of individuals are often responsible for a significant amount of retail crime across our communities.
"Their actions don't just affect businesses financially, they can have a real impact on shop workers, customers, and the overall feeling of safety in our town centres. When repeat offenders are identified and dealt with, it helps reduce crime, supports local businesses, and creates safer, more welcoming places for people to live, work, and shop.”
Sergeant Billy Spence, of Skegness Community Patrol, added: “Dealing with these individuals often requires a considerable amount of police time and resources, involving repeated incidents, investigations, safeguarding concerns, and partnership work with other agencies. By focusing efforts on those causing the greatest harm, Response and Neighbourhood Policing teams can make the most effective use of available resources, reduce repeat offending, and deliver the greatest benefit to local businesses and communities.
“Ultimately, this targeted approach is about protecting people, supporting local trade, and ensuring our neighbourhoods remain safe, vibrant, and welcoming for everyone.”
Five people charged:
• A 30 year-old man from Skegness has been charged with 12 counts of shop theft, one of handling stolen goods and one of theft of electrical and other items from a person. He was remanded into custody and is due to appear at Lincoln Magistrates’ Court today (20 July).
• A 31 year-old woman, of no fixed address, has been charged with six counts of shop theft. She has been released on conditional bail not to enter any retail shop in Skegness other than Lidl and Skegness Pharmacy. She is due to appear at Boston Magistrates’ Court on 3 August.
• A 24 year-old man, of Skegness, was charged with four offences including breaking bail conditions and shop theft. He is due to appear at Lincoln Magistrates’ Court today (20 July).
• A 40 year-old man, of no fixed address, faced two charges, including breaking bail conditions and shop theft. He appeared at Lincoln Magistrates’ court (20 July) where he was released on bail.
• A second 40 year-old man, of Ingoldmells, was charged with shop theft relating to an incident on 23 March. He has been released on bail and is due to appear at Boston Magistrates’ court on 3 August.