Kent Police acted quickly after a suspected theft occurred at Boots in Sevenoaks High Street on the night of Wednesday, 27 August. Two suspects were apprehended within 20 minutes at Sevenoaks railway station, found in possession of stolen items and tools.
The incident was reported at 10.39pm when staff at Boots noticed two individuals hiding items in their shopping bags. Officers intercepted the suspects before they could leave the area by train.
The stolen items included toiletries and perfume. Additionally, the suspects were found carrying a screwdriver and pliers, which are believed to be tools used in the theft.
The two suspects have been identified as Scott Murphy, 38, of Turpington Lane, and Charlene Cornwell, 33, also of Turpington Lane, Bromley. Both face charges of theft and have been bailed to appear at Sevenoaks Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 30 September.
Detective Inspector Rik Spicer praised the effectiveness of the police’s anti-shoplifting measures, stating, “Thanks to targeted plain clothes ops, extra patrols, and community engagement, shoplifting reports in Sevenoaks have dropped nearly 10% over the past year.”
He added, “Our neighbourhood task force works daily with local stakeholders to track and tackle crime trends.” Kent Police confirmed a 9.6% year-on-year decrease in reported shoplifting incidents across the area.
Originally published by UKNIP.
