ACS

ACS has called on Government to undertake an urgent review of fixed penalty notice policy. Following the publication of statistics that show that in 2006 the number of fixed penalty notices issued to shop thieves increased by 75%. The figures also show that less than half (42%) of fines were actually paid.

ACS Chief Executive James Lowman said: “It is increasingly obvious that fixed penalty notices do not deter thieves. The fact that less than half pay the fines they are allocated and only 3% of non payers faced a prosecution means that retailers can have little faith in the system. Now is the time for a full review and radical action.”

“Retailers need to be reassured that Government and police take the issue of shop theft seriously.”

Under Guidance issued to police forces, officers are expected to issue fines only to first time offenders. They are also expected to consult with victims and take into consideration their views when deciding whether to issue a fine.

Mr Lowman continued: “We are concerned that the Police in many parts of the country are not following the guidance this has to be considered as part of a review.”

ACS will be reiterating their call for a review by again writing to Ministers.