Four women arrested after suspected shop theft and assault at M&S in Harrogate
"At a time when the cost of living continues to rise and businesses are under increasing pressure, shop theft remains a key priority for North Yorkshire Police”
Four women have been arrested after a suspected theft at a shop in Harrogate, during which a member of staff was allegedly assaulted.
North Yorkshire Police said officers were called to the M&S store on Leeds Road at 3.36pm on Thursday, October 29, following reports that a significant quantity of goods had been stolen.
During the incident, a member of staff who attempted to stop the women was assaulted, police said.
Officers were given details of a vehicle believed to be linked to the incident and carried out extensive searches across the area.
The vehicle was eventually located travelling northbound on the A1, where it was intercepted by roads policing officers.
Police said four women were inside the vehicle, two of whom were wanted on warrants.
The vehicle was seized and officers recovered suspected stolen goods from a number of stores with an estimated value of £1,672.49.
All four women were arrested and remained in police custody overnight.
Enquiries are continuing today.
PC Michelle Telford, of North Yorkshire Police, said: "At a time when the cost of living continues to rise and businesses are under increasing pressure, shop theft remains a key priority for North Yorkshire Police.
"When incidents like this happen, we will respond immediately.
"I would urge retailers, staff and members of the public to always report crimes of this nature.
“If a shop theft is in progress, or there is any threat of violence or assault, please call 999 straight away.
“The information you provide can be crucial in helping us identify and locate suspects quickly."