Cop shops

UNDERCOVER and uniform police and security staff will saturate Westfield Fountain Gate in the lead-up to Christmas in a bid to crack down on shoplifters and anti-social behaviour.
Those stealing from shops, cars or taking part in anti-social behaviour will be targeted by police as part of the operation.
Casey youth resource officer Leading Senior Constable Dave Smith hoped the united effort would make people think twice about their actions.
“Shop theft is a serious crime and offenders can expect hefty penalties and, in some cases, prison sentences,” he said.
“We will continue to work with Westfield Fountain Gate retailers to help reduce theft and will prosecute any person found stealing to the full extent of the law.”
Westfield centre manager Tim Broxham says it’s crucial police clamp down on the issue.
“Ultimately the honest customer suffers most from the impact of shoplifting with price, choice and service all compromised,” he said,
Police detected about 60 shoplifters in the past 12 months as part of three separate one-day operations at the centre.