Stockport neighbourhood officers having positive impact on town centre
Operation Rimini in Stockport has led to a significant reduction in shoplifting and anti-social behaviour, with arrests for shoplifting up by 49% and charges up by 45%. The operation has resulted in 77 arrests and 179 charges since June 2023. Additional measures include the use of Criminal Behaviour Orders (CBOs) to target repeat offenders, with 12 currently in place. The initiative involves high-visibility patrols and collaboration with partners like British Transport Police and Stockport Council.
New Data from Stockport: Crime and Policing Insights
Recent figures from Greater Manchester Police’s Stockport division reveal notable trends in local crime and law enforcement outcomes, particularly tied to ongoing initiatives like Operation Rimini.
Key Metrics:
- Shoplifting Arrests: 280 (a 49% rise, up from 187)
- Shoplifting Charges: 227 (a 45% rise, up from 162)
- Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) Incidents: 7,495 (a 6.1% drop, down from 7,985)
These changes occur as resources are poured back into frontline policing, with operations such as Operation Rimini—a multi-agency crackdown on retail crime and disorder—now in its latest phase.
Operation Rimini This Week:
- 3 Arrests: Including assault, criminal damage, and one prison recall
- 1 Seized Vehicle: Believed stolen, recovered in town centre
- 7 Fixed Penalty Notices: Issued for parking offences
- 3 Drug Programme Referrals: Made for intervention and support
This builds on cumulative results since June 2023:
- 77 Total Arrests
- 179 Total Charges
Criminal Behaviour Orders (CBOs) remain a key tool, with 12 currently active in the town centre, half resulting directly from Rimini activities. These court-issued orders restrict repeat offenders from entering specific stores or areas, aiming to prevent further offences.
Broader Context: This week’s action forms part of regular, monthly Rimini days that also feature:
- High-visibility patrols
- Plain-clothed officer deployments
- Joint work with British Transport Police and Stockport Council
Authorities state: “The public tell us consistently they want to see officers out on patrol, engaging with shops and commuters. That’s what we’re delivering.”
Engagement & Next Steps: Police encourage public interaction. Residents can join ‘Bee in the Loop’ alerts—free text/email updates on local policing matters—or report concerns via several channels:
- 101 (non-emergency police line)
- GMP Website (crime reporting tools)
- Crimestoppers (0800 555 111, anonymously)
Sign-off: Chief Inspector Clare Ryle
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