ACS

Justice Secretary Jack Straw has issued strengthened revised guidance to the courts and the Police on Penalty Notices for Disorder (PNDs) which are used to tackle retail theft.

ACS Chief Executive James Lowman said: “ACS has had concerns over the use of PNDs, and has met with Jack Straw to discuss these. They have been a light touch punishment that has not deterred shoplifters; demonstrated this week with Home Office statistics showing an increase in shop theft.”

The changes will mean that PNDs will apply to shoplifters who have less than £100 in goods or caused less than £300 damages and are not drug users. The on-the-spot fines for shoplifting will now be limited to first-time offenders. Mr Straw said the definition of retail theft had also been tightened so that on-the-spot fines can only be used in shoplifting cases where the goods stolen are fit to be re-sold.

Mr Lowman continued: "Government have listened to retailers concerns and this new guidance is a welcome step in the right direction.

"We hope these changes will make on the spot fine act as a deterrent and reduce reoffending. They must form part of a wider strategy to tackle shop crime.

“ACS will work to ensure retailers are aware of these changes and make sure they are adopted by the Police. Shop theft is not a victimless crime and costs our industry millions of pounds a year.”

ACS has worked closely with the Ministry of Justice on the review of this issue.

Contacts:

Shane Brennan Public Affairs Director
01252 515001/ 07921 372 978

Nina Collins Communications Coordinator
01252 515001

Notes to Editors:

1. ACS (Association of Convenience Stores) is the voice of local shops, representing over 33,500 convenience stores. ACS helps local shops thrive through lobbying, support and networking opportunities.