Operation Vulture is Lancashire Constabulary’s response to shoplifting across the county, backed by Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw.
The operation sees dedicated officers undertaking hotspot patrolling, increasing their visibility in targeted areas and creating strong partnerships with retailers across the county to better share intelligence, get a deeper understanding of retail crime and identify more offenders.
These stories below serve as a stark reminder of the consequences of criminal behaviour within our communities:
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13. Simon Ferguson
Simon Ferguson, 35, from Ferndale, Skelmersdale, was jailed in October for multiple shoplifting offences in West Lancashire. He failed to change his ways and was arrested again on Tuesday, just weeks after his release, for eight further shoplifting offences. Ferguson was remanded in custody and appeared before magistrates where he was sentenced to five months in prison. In addition to the jail term, Ferguson was subjected to a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO). | Lancashire Police
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14. Richard Gregson
Richard Gregson was given a two-year Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) as a result of shoplifting offences. The 46-year-old, of Russell Street, Bacup, was sentenced at Blackburn Magistrates Court on Thursday, March 20. | Lancashire Police
15. Adam Larkin
Adam Larkin was caught stealing £80 worth of meat and cheese despite being banned from all Asda, Aldi, and Co-op stores in Lancashire. He appeared before Preston Magistrates' Court where he pleaded guilty to the offence and was sentenced to eight months in prison. | Lancashire Police
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16. Leroy Colecozy
Leroy Colecozy targeted stores across the city. The 51-year-old was caught stealing candles and fragrances from the Next store on Fishergate in April. Colecozy, of Great Avenham Street, Preston, appeared at Preston Magistrates’ Court where he pleaded guilty to theft. He was sentenced to 16 weeks in prison. | Lancashire Police