Norfolk police chief says justice for shop theft arrives too late

The chief constable of Norfolk Police, Paul Sanford, has said that punishment for shop theft too often comes too late, and has called for investment in speeding up the justice system to be treated as a funding priority.

Speaking to BBC Radio Norfolk, Sanford said his greatest concern was the gap between the offence and the eventual sanction. He pointed to delays in the court system, offenders being bailed while awaiting sentencing, and waiting lists for treatment orders as key factors contributing to the problem. He argued that targeted investment in these areas would also make economic sense given the damage shop theft causes to the High Street.

Figures show improvement

Home Office data shows shoplifting offences in Norfolk fell by 10% in 2025/26 compared with the previous year. The force remains the most successful in the country at identifying suspects, although 28% of shoplifting investigations were closed without a suspect identified — the lowest such rate nationally.

Sanford said Norfolk Police had prioritised tackling shop theft for several years, with other forces seeking advice from its officers. He credited much of the improvement to the dedication of frontline officers, while cautioning that offence levels remain stubbornly high and further work is needed. He described tackling shoplifting as a joint effort between police and retailers.

Sanford also called for adequately resourced support services for offenders whose crimes may be linked to alcohol or drug addiction. At the same time, he acknowledged that victims need to see justice being served, saying a balance must be struck between the speed and the relevance of sentencing.

A Home Office spokesperson said retail crime has for too long been treated as low-level offending, noting it harms shop workers, damages businesses and hollows out communities. The department said it is creating a specific criminal offence for assaulting a retail worker.