Crime Stoppers community solution to shoplifting.
With retail theft costing Australian retailers up to $9 billion* a year – costs which are passed on to consumers – Crime Stoppers is asking Tasmanians to help identify those responsible.
In a new initiative with Tasmania Police, Crime Stoppers is seeking to support police investigations by identifying suspected shoplifters, asking the public to come forward with the names of the offenders.
Images, video and information are being shared to the community via the Crime Stoppers Facebook page and website.
Crime Stoppers Tasmania General Manager, Mr Aldo Antolli, is urging Tasmanians if they know them, to name them – and speak up anonymously to Crime Stoppers.
“Shoplifting costs all of us in the end,” said Mr Antolli, “because the losses are eventually passed on to the consumer.”
Mr Antolli said, “We know in most cases, these people are known to someone, and we are asking the community to help us identify them.”
Since the initiative began 8 weeks ago, information provided by the community has named nearly 60% of the people sought – with 11 out of 19 suspects being identified.
Crime Stoppers Know Them Name Them Facebook posts have received over 115,000 views and the relevant Crime Stoppers website pages have received over 11,000 views.
As a result, Tasmania Police investigations have led to several offenders charged and are ongoing. In some cases, the offenders were identified within minutes of the images being posted and one offender came forward voluntarily.
Mr Antolli reminded the public that even when providing information on the identification of suspects, they can always remain anonymous.
Mr Antolli also commented that anti-social behavior, including intimidation of staff members, was unfortunately not uncommon in retail premises.
“Everyone should have the right to go to work, go shopping or enjoy our public spaces without fear of threat or intimidation,” said Mr Antolli.
“Any identification provided to Crime Stoppers is always treated anonymously. We don’t need to know who you are – just what you know. People can find us on Facebook or head to crimestopperstas.com.au and check out our Open Cases,” said Mr Antolli.
Supporting Crime Stoppers, Acting Commander John Toohey said “The Know Them Name Them campaign highlights the real impact of retail crime – not just on businesses, but on the people who work in them.”
“Retail workers across the state are increasingly facing threats, abuse, and theft, behaviour that is unacceptable and deeply harmful to local communities.
“Police are working closely with retailers, community partners and Crime Stoppers across the state to identify offenders.”
“We’re working hard to stop it, but we can’t do it alone. Crime Stoppers is anonymous and secure, if you Know Them? Name Them!” said Acting Commander Toohey.
Matt Edwards, Manager of Bunnings North Launceston said retail crime wasn’t just about the cost to businesses.
“Everyone deserves to feel safe at work and while out shopping, but the sad reality is retail crime is on the rise,” Mr Edwards said.
“Keeping our team, customers and suppliers safe in and around our stores is our number one priority and we’re hopeful this initiative will make a difference.”
Pictured: Matt Edwards – Site Manager Bunnings North Launceston, Aldo Antolli – General Manager Crime Stoppers Tasmania, Acting Commander John Toohey – Tasmania Police
If you see illegal, unlawful or suspicious behaviour, please report it to police at the time by calling 131 444. In an emergency call triple zero (000).
Information about crime can also be provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers Tasmania at crimestopperstas.com.au or 1800 333 000.
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