A recent study has shown that UK retailers should expect to lose around £1 billion this Christmas, due to the theft and other retail related crimes. The Centre for Retail Research revealed yesterday that its latest finding suggest that this astronomical loss will inevitably add £38.09 on to every UK family’s festive shopping bill, which is even more daunting when you consider the fact that the average consumer spends approximately 60% more over the festive period than any other month in the calendar.
The Shoplifting Report of 2012 finds that alcohol, electronic goods , toys and women’s clothes are amongst those most likely to be stolen. Unfortunately, the festive season is a prime time for criminals. Many will take advantage of busy stores in order to steal high value goods. It has been found that there has been an increase in the amount of females, mothers in particular, who are taking advantage of the festive crowds and stealing goods for their children on Christmas day.
A person will be found guilty of theft if they dishonestly take property belonging to another person, with the intention of permanently depriving them of it. A common example is to take a product or products belonging to a shop without paying for it. Around the time of Christmas thefts and shoplifting increase massively. Whether it is food or presents this is the time of year when most people are struggling. However, if you are caught shoplifting or stealing this can have repercussions for the rest of your life, as this goes on to your criminal record, affecting your future career path.
If you or someone you know has been charged with theft or you would like to find out more about the consequences then feel free to give one of our friendly, experienced solicitors a call on 01244 344299 or use our online contact form here for confidential legal advice.
Image credit: Flickr Alliecreative
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