Stockton’s Community Action Team (CAT) swoop on wanted shoplifter

The man was spotted by two police officers as they patrolled hot spot areas in the town centre.

He was detained in connection with five shoplifting offences in Billingham and Stockton between Saturday 27 April and Monday 13 May. Following a search, he was further arrested on suspicion of being in possession of class A and class B drugs.

The 28-year-old was transported to police custody to be questioned.

Sergeant Darren Williamson, from Stockton’s CAT and proactive team, said: “We are consistently on the hunt for individuals who are wanted for a variety of offences and today was no exception.

“Shoplifting is a concern in Stockton and is a priority due to the impact it has on local businesses and the staff who work there.

"Often, shoplifting can be committed by repeat offenders. This can create multiple victims and crimes to be investigated by various officers and departments. The benefit of dealing with these individuals in a timely and efficient manner prevents further offences and allows the courts to imprison repeat offenders or seek prohibitive orders to reduce further offences.”

To report a crime please contact Cleveland Police on 101.