Wells police step up shoplifting crackdown

By Laura Linham 22nd Jul 2026

Local News by Laura Linham 40 minutes ago

Police are stepping up their crackdown on shoplifting in Wells city centre after naming High Street as a priority hotspot. The Wells Neighbourhood Policing Team agreed and updated the priority on Wednesday, 15 July 2026, as businesses continue to raise concerns about repeat offending.

Shoplifting remains one of the team's key priorities for 2026. Police say the issue is damaging businesses, affecting staff and undermining public confidence in the city centre.

Wells High Street has been singled out because of its concentration of shops and steady footfall. Police say those conditions make it more vulnerable to repeat offending, with persistent shoplifting also linked to wider frustration and fear among retail staff.

The response now includes regular high-visibility patrols by the Wells Neighbourhood Policing Team and Special Constables. Additional officers have also been deployed to Wells High Street under the Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee.

Police are also tightening their work with shops and businesses, with a focus on faster information sharing and joint problem-solving. The aim is to spot emerging issues sooner, build stronger links with retailers and direct officers to the places where they are most needed.

CCTV is also playing a growing role in the city centre crackdown. Police say recent enquiries have led to several positive identifications of offenders, with officers now progressing those investigations.

The team says the priority has been shaped by concerns raised by local businesses and the wider community. Officers say the approach is designed to deter offences, identify offenders and give retailers more visible support.

Police say shoplifting is not a minor issue for the people dealing with it day after day. They say it can affect livelihoods, create fear and frustration for staff, and contribute to wider antisocial behaviour if it is not tackled.

The Wells Neighbourhood Policing Team says the focus will remain on the city centre while the issue continues to affect traders. Residents and businesses with concerns or information are being encouraged to report them to Avon and Somerset Police.