Targeted patrols and plain clothes officers are continuing a crackdown on town centre thieves which has seen significant crime reductions in retail areas.

Between 1 February and 30 April 2025, reported shoplifting offences in Sevenoaks were down by almost a third, from 173 to 118 compared to the same period the year previous.

Businesses in Tunbridge Wells saw a fall of almost 25 per cent, from 252 offences to 190.

Over the same period the number of crimes solved across west Kent increased by nearly 17 per cent, from 208 to 358. This included a nearly 10 per cent rise in charges secured against offenders, from 166 to 248.

This comes following the implementation of additional foot patrols, plain-clothed officers in town centres, engagement events with local communities, amongst other local initiatives.

Work to tackle shoplifting robustly in west Kent is ongoing.

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Reports of shoplifting have fallen more than 25 per cent in parts of west Kent

Suspected prolific thief

Between 6 February and 11 May 2025 it is alleged that a man entered 12 stores on 15 separate occasions and took items such as fuel, groceries and homeware. Each time the suspect left without paying.

Targeted shops included four in Maidstone, three in Cranbrook, one in Tunbridge Wells and one in Staplehurst.

A man was later arrested on 13 May in connection to the incidents.

Leon Holder, of Fairview in Hawkhurst, near Cranbrook, was later charged with theft and making off without payment. The 35 year old appeared before Sevenoaks Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday 14 May, where he pleaded guilty.

Mr Holder has since been remanded in custody pending a sentencing hearing at Maidstone Crown Court, the date of which is yet to be confirmed.

Continued crackdown

Chief Superintendent Neil Loudon said:

‘Shoplifting is not a victimless crime. It affects business owners, employees and entire communities. We take these offences extremely seriously, recognising the financial strain and emotional stress they can cause.‘Our officers are committed to tackling retail theft and work closely with local businesses and partners to identify offenders and prevent repeat incidents.‘By taking swift action and ensuring consequences for those responsible, we aim to protect livelihoods and maintain safe and thriving high streets and retail locations for everyone.‘As a force, we have invested heavily in local beat and town centre officers who are having a huge impact and making a positive difference. ‘We encourage witnesses and victims to continue reporting incidents to Kent Police. We also invite shop owners to talk to their local beat officers about preventative measures, including the Shop Safe radio initiative which enables shop workers to directly contact local on-duty officers in real-time.’