Police persistent in maintaining high profile around Geraldton shopping centres with bus to combat theft

Geraldton Police are maintaining their presence across shopping centres, randomly stationing a mobile facility at entrances to combat shoplifting and antisocial behaviour, a tactic put in place this week.

On Tuesday, a mobile police facility was stationed at the Northgate Shopping Centre during the day to enforce a strong police presence to detract shoplifters from offending.

A security guard at the shopping centre confirmed there had been no incidents of shoplifting while the police were present at the shopping centre.

On Wednesday police made their presence felt at the Seacrest Shopping Centre and would continue random patrols on a daily basis.

Last week, Geraldton Police acting officer-in-charge Sen. Sgt Nathan Johansen said reducing shoplifting was a high priority for police.

“It’s when people see the police vehicles and the high-visibility patrols, that really is deterring the crime. You’re preventing it rather than reacting,” he said. “It’s to get them thinking you never know when police are going to roll up and put some doubt in their minds.”

Geraldton Police Sen. Sgt Russell Hurst said combatting shoplifting was a passion of his and he was working on an Early Notification Scheme for retailers and police to instantly notify each other.

“It is a continuing offence that is ultimately driving the prices up for every other person who has to purchase groceries,” he said.

“There are habitual thieves who go out and steal on a daily basis. They’re dealt with but it doesn’t change their behaviour.”

Sen. Sgt Hurst said police would work with shopkeepers to ensure if a known thief is around or someone acts suspiciously, information is shared with a confidential chat.

“It’s really beneficial in that everyone’s aware of what they’re wearing or what’s been stolen,” he said.

“If police are on patrol at that time and see the message pop up, they can apprehend that person instantly.”

Sen. Sgt Hurst said the scheme was expected to be rolled out next month.