CCTV footage released by Merseyside Police shows Terri-Ann Williams, 42, of Bridge Street in Birkenhead, stuffing boxes of washing detergent under her coat during a shoplifting spree. Williams, wearing a Montirex cap, a long green coat, and clutching a large handbag, is seen in front of shelves holding washing products, repeatedly placing boxes and bottles into her coat without fear of being caught.
Jailed for 16 Weeks
Williams was charged with 13 offences at multiple shops across Merseyside and sentenced to 16 weeks in prison. The footage is part of a new police operation codenamed Dale, which aims to tackle retail crime by speeding up justice for victims.
A police spokesperson said: "The operation allows retailers to upload evidence of offences using CCTV with offenders clearly identified and digital witness statements provided by retail workers giving officers corroborating evidence ensuring the case meets national charging criteria."
Operation Dale's Impact
Detective Inspector Neil Dillon said: "Operation Dale has transformed the way we tackle retail crime. By making better use of digital technology and streamlining investigations where the evidence is clear, we are bringing offenders to justice faster and freeing up officers to focus on protecting our communities."
He added: "The impact extends far beyond retail theft. Many prolific shoplifters are linked to burglary, drug-related crime, anti-social behaviour and violence against women and girls (VAWG). By targeting these offenders more efficiently, we are preventing further harm and delivering better outcomes for victims, businesses and the wider public."
Officers Praise Efficiency
Detective Sergeant Mark Pedder said: "It's about working smarter while maintaining the highest investigative standards. The operation has shown that we can significantly reduce the time suspects spend in custody and achieve positive court outcomes without compromising the quality of our investigations. Each hour saved allows officers to focus on other priorities and support communities more effectively."
Sergeant Sarah Jenkins, of neighbourhood crime support on the Wirral, said: "The difference for our officers has been huge, as previously investigators spent hours carrying out interviews and collecting evidence. Now we can send officers back out into the community quicker targeting offenders, safeguarding vulnerable people and benefitting victims and communities more effectively."
Another Success
The force said another recent success of the project has seen Callan Bennett, 38, of Botanic Road in Wavertree, awaiting sentence after being charged with 27 different shoplifting offences.
The police spokesperson added: "If you see a retail worker being spoken to in an abusive way or any kind of physical abuse please contact security staff in the retail outlet and never put yourself at risk."
You can report crime at Merseyside Police's social media desk via X @MerPolCC or on Facebook 'Merseyside Police Contact Centre'. You can also report information via our website: Report a crime | Merseyside Police or call 101.
"Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, or via their website here: Giving information Crimestoppers. In an emergency always call 999."
