'I stole to order' says prolific ex-shoplifter

Published On Aug 29, 2024, 2:39 AM

A former shoplifter named Ross, who stole goods worth £300 daily to finance his drug addiction, shares his experiences in a BBC interview. He admitted to long-term theft and selling stolen items to shops, citing a growing trend in businesses accepting stolen goods. Despite his 15 convictions, Ross has not been incarcerated. He attributes his actions to desperation linked with addiction and has called for improved support for people facing similar struggles. The wave of shoplifting is reportedly escalating, affecting retailers significantly, leading to higher prices for consumers. Business owners express concerns about rising theft, with some advocating for stricter penalties against offenders. Current statistics reveal that shoplifting offenses are at an all-time high in the UK, with systemic issues relating to mental health and drug dependence contributing to the crisis.