Sharp drop in shoplifting recorded in Prestonpans in June

Just eight shoplifting offences were recorded in June, down from 77 in May, according to a police report presented to Prestonpans Community Council at its latest meeting.

In the foreword to the report, PC Frances Stevenson said that police were in discussion with Shop Watch, a police-led initiative with community stakeholders, to secure funds for a radio to be available for "badly hit stores in the town" so they can quickly communicate offences between shops.

A total of 64 crimes were recorded from 183 calls made to the Prestonpans area between May 26 and June 22.

Listed under reducing acquisitive crime were 11 thefts, including two of a motor vehicle, two thefts of bicycles and one relating to the opening of an ATM.

There were also two thefts by housebreaking, one of a home and another of a shed, as well as an attempted housebreaking.

Under the policing objective of reducing violence and anti-social behaviour, seven vandalism offences were listed, as well as one of malicious mischief.

Four assaults were also recorded, including three causing injury and another of assault and robbery, as well as five cases of threatening and abusive behaviour, one of a retail worker.

One abduction was also noted.

In terms of protecting vulnerable people, there were nine domestic incidents, five missing persons reports, eight breaches of bail conditions and one breach of a non-harassment order.

Road safety offences included three cases of driving without insurance, one of careless driving and one failure to stop after an accident.

Five offences were recorded relating to driver documentation and vehicle condition requirements.

Drug offences recorded included one case each involving possession of Class A, B and C substances.

PC Stevenson also praised organisers of the town’s recent gala day and thanked volunteers for their work in delivering a successful community event.

Tackling speeding and anti-social behaviour were set as community policing objectives.