Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary is demonstrating its commitment to tackling shoplifting and organised retail crime as part of a national crackdown. This follows the Pegasus Partnership initiative, which has so far resulted in 93 arrests, including a case in Hampshire where a prolific shoplifter was jailed for stealing over £24,000 worth of items from local Boots stores.
Addressing retail crime
Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones has reaffirmed her dedication to addressing retail crime through her recently launched Police and Crime Plan.
The plan prioritises support for local businesses and ensures robust action against offenders who target high streets and retail establishments.
Jones: The impact of this crime is far reaching
PCC Donna Jones said,
“Organised crime is linked to shoplifting through networks of offenders who systematically target retail stores, often across multiple regions, to steal high-value items for resale, funding broader criminal enterprises such as drug trafficking or human exploitation
“The impact of this crime is far reaching, it impacts business owners, staff, and shoppers. It threatens community safety and confidence in our high streets, and it must be stopped.
“I am proud to see the force working in partnership with national initiatives like Pegasus to bear down on those who target businesses, disrupt organised crime groups, and support victims. My Police and Crime Plan highlights this priority, and I remain committed to ensuring businesses feel protected and offenders face justice.”
Pegasus Partnership
The Pegasus Partnership, a collaboration between retailers, the Home Office, and policing, centralises intelligence on organised crime groups.
In Hampshire, this led to the conviction of Ionel Elvis Dulea, who targeted stores in Andover, Aldershot, and Fareham, stealing high-value skincare and cosmetic products. Dulea was sentenced to two years in prison at Winchester Crown Court.
Has impacted 28 organised crime groups
Hampshire’s proactive approach aligns with the wider achievements of the Pegasus Partnership, which has so far impacted 28 organised crime groups and prevented losses exceeding £4 million nationally. Opal, the national intelligence unit driving this effort, has identified over 228 offenders and supported multiple investigations across the UK.
The Constabulary and PCC’s commitment to tackling retail crime ensures safer streets, thriving businesses, and continued public confidence in the region.
News shared by the office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, in their own words. Ed
