Three former prolific shoplifters shared invaluable insights into security measures and products to prevent retail crime last week, during a partnership event hosted by Nottinghamshire Police.
James, Nick and Jack all managed to turn their backs on offending and drugs with the help of Nottinghamshire Police’s Open 2 Recovery (O2R) scheme.
Using their own lived experience and expert knowledge, the trio gave advice and perspectives on shop security solutions and scenarios which were demonstrated and shown to them at the Sherwood Lodge headquarters.
The session included a live demonstration of a fog generator, provided by security product manufacturer Smoke Screen, whose representatives were keen to get feedback on which measures the force’s O2R scheme advocates felt would have deterred them most from stealing, as well as getting their first-hand insight into improvements which could be made.
James, Nick and Jack gave insights into how they would have reacted in the different scenarios they were presented with, as well as lifting the lid on their own decision-making processes, with their feedback being used to help shape potential effective retail crime prevention solutions in Nottinghamshire and beyond.
Inspector Sam Birch said: “It was so beneficial for us to hear and learn from the feedback given by James, Nick and Jack through their own lived experience and expertise, helping to identify effective methods to combat retail crime. Working closely with our partners is key to our approach to tackling business and retail crime all year around.
“This important work not only involves us engaging with our local businesses but also with security suppliers who work with retailers to deliver crime prevention solutions.
”This is just part of our ongoing work to protect our businesses, their staff and members of the public…”
“This is just part of our ongoing work to protect our businesses, their staff and members of the public from the damage caused by shop theft and to boost public confidence in our ability to protect our communities.”
Smoke Screen also donated to Nottinghamshire Police’s O2R project, whose key aims include reducing crime, making communities and businesses safer and rehabilitating prolific offenders entrenched in substance use and causing harm to communities through chaotic lifestyle choices.
At Wednesday’s event, the trio also spoke openly about their own personal journeys and the help they’ve received through the scheme.
Jack, who at one time was among the top five shoplifting offenders in Nottingham city centre, has been able to reconnect with his family since turning his back on crime and getting clean, helped by continuous support through O2R. He was previously made subject of a criminal behaviour order which he said stopped him from shoplifting.
He was also recently given the keys to his first flat as he continues his recovery, and said: “Since getting clean, getting purpose back in my life and getting to know myself, it’s the ‘Jack before the addiction’ that’s come back.”
The O2R programme is part-funded by the Office of the Police & Crime Commissioner for Nottinghamshire, with other funding providers including Probation.
Nottinghamshire Police and Crime Commissioner Gary Godden said: “Shoplifting has a real and lasting impact on retailers, their staff and our communities, and tackling it remains a clear priority. If we’re to reduce it consistently, we must break the cycle of repeat offending by addressing the addiction and trauma that often sit behind it.
“Jack’s journey from being one of the most prolific shoplifters to rebuilding his life and reconnecting with his family shows exactly why investing in long-term rehabilitation alongside enforcement is so important for creating safer communities.”
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