North Kent officers have continued their efforts to target individuals committing thefts against local businesses, resulting in the arrest and charging of three suspects in recent weeks. The swift response highlights the force’s commitment to protecting businesses and their employees from crime.

Theft and Assault in Dartford

On 25 September 2024, Lisa Kivlehan entered a shop on London Road, Dartford, and stole four bottles of alcohol, concealing them in her bag. When challenged by a staff member attempting to prevent her from leaving, Kivlehan bit the victim’s arm before fleeing. Following an investigation, Kivlehan was arrested on 15 October. She was charged with theft and assault and pleaded guilty during her first appearance at Sevenoaks Magistrates’ Court the next day. Kivlehan, 38, of Tennyson Road, Dartford, was sentenced to 180 days’ imprisonment, which included the activation of a suspended sentence.

Repeat Offender Arrested for Shoplifting

In a separate incident, Naomi Denton-Younger, 33, of Priory Road, Dartford, entered Sainsbury’s on Priory Road, Dartford, on 14 October and stole food items. Two days later, she returned to the same store and stole a bottle of whisky. Officers patrolling the area pursued and arrested her. Denton-Younger was charged with two counts of theft and pleaded guilty at Medway Magistrates’ Court on 17 October. She has been conditionally bailed pending a hearing at the same court on 9 December.

Theft in Gravesend

Kent Police responded to a theft report on 17 October after a man allegedly stole a crate of alcohol from the Co-op in East Milton Road, Gravesend. Officers detained the suspect, Lewis Flint, 31, of no fixed address, after spotting him in Queens Road. Flint was charged with theft and has been conditionally bailed to appear at Medway Magistrates’ Court on 1 November.

Police Commitment to Tackling Retail Crime

Chief Inspector Lee Cheesman of North Kent Police commented: “Our officers are committed to tackling retail theft as it can have an impact on the profitability of businesses and affects the prices law-abiding members of the public have to pay. It also causes distress to shop workers, and we will ensure anyone identified as a suspect is swiftly tracked down and detained.”

Kent Police continue to work closely with local businesses and communities to prevent crime and support retail workers, ensuring that those responsible for thefts are brought to justice.