Former Shoplifter Reveals the Hidden Network of “Stealing to Order” for UK Businesses
A former prolific shoplifter, Ross, who has avoided prison despite 15 shoplifting convictions, has confessed to selling stolen goods to other businesses, a practice known as “stealing to order.” Ross revealed to the BBC that his thefts, which at times amounted to £300 per day, were primarily driven by a crack cocaine and heroin addiction. He often acted as the “cheapest wholesaler,” supplying items like perfume, cosmetics, alcohol, and food to businesses across Leeds.
Ross, 39, disclosed that he had been clean for five months and expressed deep regret for his actions, which he attributed to the desperation brought on by his addiction. His most recent conviction came in May after stealing more than £4,000 worth of goods from Urban Outfitters over two years, which resulted in a suspended sentence.
Stealing to Order: A Growing Trend
Helen Dickinson, CEO of the British Retail Consortium, highlighted a disturbing trend of unscrupulous businesses purchasing stolen goods. As Ross described, he would often be directed to specific shops where he would sell stolen items, sometimes laying them out in a back room to negotiate a price. He also worked with middlemen who would further distribute the goods.
The impact of this theft on legitimate businesses is significant. Darren Bailey, who owns six pet supply shops in Yorkshire, shared how he had written off £5,000 worth of stock due to theft in the past year. He noted that the cost ultimately falls on customers through higher prices, a sentiment echoed by the Centre for Retail Research, which estimates shoplifting adds £133 to the average household’s annual shopping bill.
The Human Cost of Shoplifting
Ross, who had been addicted to drugs for over 20 years, emphasized the need for more support for those battling addiction and mental health issues. He described shoplifting as an act of “desperation” driven by a “mental illness” and a struggle for survival. He lamented the lack of meaningful support throughout his life, which began spiraling out of control as he used crack and heroin together, eventually necessitating a stronger methadone prescription.
A psychiatric report from his recent court appearance suggested he likely has ADHD, which, along with a traumatic early childhood, contributed to his addiction. Yet, Ross said he had never received any mental health support.
A Nationwide Problem
Shoplifting is a nationwide issue in the UK, with more than 430,000 offences recorded last year, the highest since records began in 2003, according to the Office for National Statistics. Local businesses are feeling the impact acutely. In Truro, Cornwall, Martin Gaunt, the owner of Happy Piranha, a gift and collectibles store, reported near-daily thefts. He recounted witnessing a thief sell stolen goods to another trader, a practice that has become “all-consuming” for shop owners trying to safeguard their livelihoods.
Freya Thackray, a staff member at one of Bailey’s shops in Leeds, described the dilemma of confronting potentially armed shoplifters, while many businesses feel increasingly helpless against the persistent problem.
Calls for Stronger Action and Support
Business owners and law enforcement agencies are calling for tougher punishments and more effective measures to combat shoplifting. Bailey argued for stricter penalties, while Helen Dickinson stressed the importance of a police crackdown on organized theft. West Yorkshire Police, aware of local business concerns, have implemented various strategies, including plain clothes operations and targeted action days.
In Leeds, waiting times for an ADHD assessment stretch up to three years, and the backlog is even longer nationwide. Ross believes that had he received more support earlier, his life might have taken a different course.
A spokesperson for Leeds City Council asserted that the city offers comprehensive addiction support, collaborating with healthcare providers to prevent vulnerable individuals from “falling through the cracks.” The Council’s efforts include funding for residential rehab and an accessible treatment service, rated Outstanding by the Care Quality Commission.
Conclusion: The Need for Comprehensive Solutions
As theft remains a pressing concern across the UK, it has become clear that solutions must go beyond tougher penalties. Addressing the underlying causes, such as addiction and mental health, could be vital in reducing recidivism among offenders like Ross. Furthermore, businesses and law enforcement must collaborate closely to prevent shoplifting from becoming a normalized and accepted aspect of everyday retail operations.
This article is based on an investigation by the BBC, revealing the complex dynamics of shoplifting and the urgent need for multi-layered strategies to tackle its root causes.
(Additional reporting by Gareth Shoulder.
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