Time taken to bring shoplifters to justice is 'unacceptable', retailers tell BBC

Retailers have expressed frustration over the increasing delays in bringing shoplifters to justice, with cases taking longer to be dealt with compared to a decade ago. The average time for addressing shoplifting cases in courts in England and Wales has risen by over 80% in the last decade. Some retailers have reported waiting up to months for shoplifters to face punishment, impacting their faith in the justice system and discouraging them from reporting crimes. These delays have led to calls for alternative punishments and quicker resolutions to deter repeat offenses.