Forecourt crime: the PRA writes to the Minister of State for Policing
PRA 05/12/2022
The PRA has written to the new Minister of State for Crime, Policing and Fire, Chris Philp, concerning the alarming increase in forecourt drive-offs in which motorists fill up their cars without paying.
In the letter, Gordon Balmer, Executive Director of the PRA, relayed that:
“Reported incidents of this type cost the industry in excess of £40m and the PRA has worked with the Home Office and the Police to improve the process to alleviate it, however many of our members are now reporting a marked increase in this type of crime.”
With the cost-of-living crisis contributing to this increase in forecourt crime, Balmer went on to express his alarm at local police forces’ lacklustre response, with some openly stating that they will not pursue drive-offs under a certain value, no doubt encouraging rather than deterring would-be criminals.
Punctuating the local polices’ approach to forecourt crime was a recent case in which a criminal filmed himself stealing petrol whilst laughing, clearly demonstrating his intent.
“Alarmingly, even after this footage was shared with the police, it took multiple representations from the owner of the forecourt and the PRA over 3 months before charges were pressed.
Our members wish to retain good relationships with their local police force and pay their business rates for their support. However, it is very frustrating in this harsh economic climate with crime on the increase, that in some circumstances this support is not forthcoming”.
“The PRA will continue pushing for a clamp-down on forecourt crime on behalf of our members.”
ENDS
NOTES TO EDITORS
Annaluce Cavalmoretti
RMI Communications Executive
201 Great Portland Street, London, W1W 5AB
Direct: +44 (0) 0207 307 3414
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About the RMI
The Retail Motor Industry represents the interests of operators in England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man providing sales and services to motorists and businesses. The RMI has a formal association with the independent Scottish Motor Trade Association which represents the retail motor industry in Scotland.