Shepparton police sleigh crime before Christmas

Items stolen included designer sunglasses, clothes, groceries and Christmas gifts including a Lynx Africa gift set.

The operation saw 24 people charged with theft, $2768 of allegedly stolen goods returned to stores, three people charged with possessing drugs, two charged with handling stolen goods, two fined for riding an electric scooter without a helmet and one vehicle impounded.

Police arrested a 62-year-old Shepparton woman for allegedly stealing glasses and clothes valued at over $300.

Police arrested a 52-year-old Shepparton woman after she allegedly stole almost $400 in retail items.

Police arrested a 20-year-old Shepparton man for allegedly stealing over $200 of items from various stores.

All three were released and charged pending summons.

This operation is the third of its kind in Shepparton for 2024, with over 70 people being arrested or processed for a range of offences.

“This operation is about protecting local businesses and ensuring that stolen goods find their way back to the shelves where they belong,” Senior Constable Mitchell Bull said.

“The cost of theft affects everyone — honest shoppers end up paying more, and the impact on small businesses ripples through the community.”

Over the past year, retail thefts have increased by 36.6 per cent in Victoria, with essential items including food, alcohol and groceries targeted, with Shepparton seeing an increase in retail store thefts by 54 per cent in the past year.

Police believe this trend is possibly influenced by inflation, cost-of-living pressures and high interest rates.

“Stealing is not the answer — our message is simple: if you choose to commit theft, you will be caught and held accountable,” Sen Constable Bull said.

“For those who might be struggling, we encourage you to seek out the many support services available during this holiday season.”