Crime really hits small businesses

I WAS pleased, as I am sure every retailer in the district was pleased, to read the statement made by Inspector Terry Chuter that if the best way to deter thieves from reoffending “...is to put that person before the court, then this is what we will do” (Man In Court Over £3 Sandwich, Kentish Gazette, January 24). I was appalled by the comment made by magistrate David Griffiths in the same article saying: “We have to question whether this prosecution should have been brought.” Crime is an issue for businesses because they are often subject to repeat victimisation, anti-social behaviour and repeat shoplifting. Crime affects a business’s ability to meet customer deadlines, attract customers and hits their profitability, ultimately risking businesses closing down and putting jobs at risk. These types of crimes are not victimless as they affect the business owner, their staff and wider community with losses having to be made good from personal resources. Research by the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) revealed two thirds of small firms are experiencing crime and fraud at a cost of up to £3,000 per business each year. Police help and engagement is critical to reduce this burden and barrier to economic growth. FSB research also reveals 40% of businesses do not report crime because of the lack of faith in the criminal justice system. Andrew Aves, Kent and Medway Federation Of Small Businesses, Castle Road, Allington, Maidstone.