Event to focus on tackling retail crime
EPAResidents are being asked to have their say at an event aimed at finding ways to tackle retail crime.
The session will see Cleveland Police, the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner and Hartlepool Borough Council discuss how they are working to reduce shoplifting and associated crime rates in the town.
The meeting is being held on 18 February at Hartlepool Civic Centre and will include a section devoted to questions from the public.
Hartlepool Labour MP Jonathan Brash, who will open the event, said businesses were "at the heart of the town's future prosperity" and local leaders would not allow retail crime to undermine them.
"The impact on shop owners, staff and shoppers is unacceptable," he said.
"We remain absolutely determined to crack down on those responsible, protect our retailers and ensure a safe working environment for their staff."
The council's chair of neighbourhoods and regulatory services committee Owen Riddle said: "Retail crime is a blight and... we will not rest in our determination to stamp it out."
