Chippenham cops crack down on Christmas crime

Police have been clamping down on shoplifting and anti-social behaviour in shopping areas in Chippenham in the lead up to Christmas. Officers have been carrying out plain clothes patrols in the town centre and Bath Road and Hathaway Retail Parks during the busiest weeks of the year for most retailers. No arrests were made during this round of patrols, however, officers will continue their work in the lead up to the big day.

During yesterday’s patrol, officers were made aware of a number of people begging in the High Street. PC Aimee Jenkins said: “Officers have spoken with these individuals and we understand they are travelling to the town to beg during the busy day time shopping hours. These people are not homeless and we would advise people not to hand over money, but instead to support charities for the homeless.

These charities will support those in need and direct them to the relevant agencies depending on their situation and needs.”