More evidence suggests on-the-spot fines encourage shoplifting

Statistics gathered from retailers in Leicester suggest that shoplifting isn't being treated seriosuly enough and on-the-spot fines are "brushing the problem under the carpet"

The figures, complied by the local chamber of commerce, suggest there has been a 25% increase in shoplifting cases in the past year year and now Leicester businesses are calling for the crime to be taken more seriously by the government.

The rise is blamed on the recession by the Leicester Chamber of Commerce, who said on the spot fines send "all the wrong messages to criminals." . In Leicester there are more than 200 cases of shoplifting a month and the value of items stolen adds on 2% to the cost of goods.

As part of a prevention scheme, the chamber is loaning out CCTV equipment to local businesses to see if it will make an impact on the number of shoplifters who target retailers.

Read the rest of this item from the BBC here