In a significant push against shoplifting, Maidstone law enforcement has recently apprehended three individuals linked to the theft of hundreds of pounds worth of grocery items from local supermarkets. This initiative is part of an ongoing effort to curb retail theft within the town, which has seen a notable increase in targeted actions by police.
Darren Turpin, a 55-year-old resident of Marsham Street, Maidstone, was arrested on Monday, 5 February, following thefts from Iceland over the preceding days. Turpin faced Medway Magistrates’ Court the next day, where he was charged with two counts of theft, in addition to assault, breaching a criminal behaviour order, and attempted criminal damage. Pending a further hearing set for 13 February at Folkestone Magistrates’ Court, Turpin has been remanded in custody.
In a separate incident, Sharna Steady, 33, from Mangravet Avenue, pleaded guilty to three counts of theft at Medway Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 6 February. Steady admitted to stealing over £300 worth of chocolate and other confectionery items from a Sainsbury’s on Tonbridge Road and Tesco on Loose Road, with the offences taking place in early January. She has been bailed until her sentencing at Maidstone Crown Court on 27 February.
The Maidstone Neighbourhood Task Force has also extended its operations beyond local boundaries to apprehend known offenders. This proactive approach led to the arrest of a 36-year-old man from Portsmouth, Hampshire, in Cliffsend, Ramsgate. Found asleep in a van, the suspect is under investigation for a series of shop thefts in January targeting a Marks and Spencer store in Eclipse Park. He has been released on bail until 2 May as enquiries continue.
Chief Inspector Mark McLellan emphasized the department’s dedication to safeguarding Maidstone’s businesses from theft. We remain committed to protecting businesses in Maidstone from those who see them as easy pickings,” he stated, highlighting the strategic use of plainclothes officers and visible patrols to gather intelligence and identify suspects.
With 52 suspects arrested and almost 30 charges successfully brought forward this year alone, Maidstone police are sending a clear message that shoplifting will not be tolerated. These efforts underscore the commitment to preventing retail theft, which significantly impacts local businesses and the community. The crackdown on shoplifting is an ongoing priority, with law enforcement dedicated to maintaining the safety and security of Maidstone’s retail environment.
