Off-duty police officers spot shoplifters

An off-duty police officer leapt into action after spotting a wellknown shoplifter stealing from a store while he was out and about in Swadlincote.

Officer Edwards saw the man help himself to items and then leave the shop without paying.

Even though he was not working at the time, it led to the man later being arrested, charged and remanded for the crime.

A second off-duty officer, Officer Cross, spotted another shoplifter running from a store in the town while she was out doing her shopping.

She chased the man but he managed to escape in a vehicle waiting nearby.

However, she did manage to get the vehicle registration, dashcam footage of the offender escaping with stolen items and store CCTV.

Details of the incidents were shared on social media by the Swadlincote Police Safer neighbourhood Team.

A spokesman said of the second thief: “He can expect an early morning knock on the door, and we won’t be taking him shopping.”