Two people have been charged after a series of shop thefts were reported at Tesco and B&M stores in Newton-le-Willows. John Barry Rolt, 35, and Victoria Chadwick, 42, both of Bank Street, Newton-le-Willows, are due to appear at Wirral Adult Remand Court today, Wednesday November 4.
Merseyside Police said that over the past month, several shop thefts were reported, with alcohol, coffee, and cleaning products allegedly taken.
Details of the incidents
The first incident, investigated by the Neighbourhood Policing Team, occurred on October 2, when it was reported that more than £80 worth of alcohol was taken from the Tesco superstore on Earle Street, Earlestown.
A further theft was reported on October 23, when a man picked up six jars of coffee from B&M on Market Street and left the store without paying. He returned the following day and allegedly stole a further 15 jars of coffee.
Further reports and charges
Additional offences were reported on October 28, when a man and a woman allegedly placed around £100 worth of alcohol into a backpack and left Tesco without paying. Two days later, approximately £92 worth of cleaning products was reportedly stolen from B&M, followed by a further theft in which stock worth around £34 was taken.
Rolt has been charged with 13 counts of theft from a shop, while Chadwick has been charged with three counts of theft from a shop.
Police comment
Neighbourhood Sergeant Gav Madine said: "Theft from shops is not a victimless crime and the ripple effect can be devastating. Staff can lose their jobs if stores are forced to close because of persistent losses, while shoppers may ultimately face higher prices as retailers look to recover the cost of stolen goods."
Madine added: "We recognise the important role policing plays in tackling offenders, supporting retailers and helping to keep staff safe. We regularly patrol areas highlighted as a concern by the community, provide advice and reassurance, and work closely with local businesses to discuss practical measures that can help protect them from theft and robbery."
To report a crime, contact Merseyside Police via social media on X or Facebook @MerPolCC, via their website, or by calling 101. Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online.
