Gwent Police has revealed its latest weapon in the war against crime – a cardboard cut-out copper.
The 7ft cut-out of 27-year-old officer Rhydian Jones (who is in fact 6ft 4in) will be appearing in several shops across the Gwent area to deter shoplifters and pickpockets in the run-up to Christmas.
While the cardboard PC Rhydian won’t be be able to chase after crooks, police say the presence of the cut-out will act as a reminder that police are on patrol.
According to latest figures from Gwent Police, most crimes are down in Gwent but shoplifting is on the increase. The two-dimensional officer is part of Operation Arcade which aims to tackle the trend.
Detective Chief Inspector Ian Roberts, who is leading Operation Arcade, said “The replicas, which have been introduced into other force areas with some success, are by no means a replacement for real police officers. They are simply another tool in the fight against crime.
“The replicas will remind potential thieves that real police officers are regularly in and around the shops as part of their normal patrols, and the initiative is another way for police and partners to work together.
“This initiative, along with other overt and covert tactics, will hopefully lead to the number of retail thefts decreasing and those responsible being brought to justice.
“While some may question whether shoplifting is a serious a crime it has to be noted that these crimes are damaging to businesses and the economy, and can lead people into further criminal behaviour. Shoplifting also has the effect of making goods more expensive for everyone else.
“I would urge shoppers to stay vigilant over the Christmas period and report any suspicious behaviour to local officers, security staff or by dialling 101.”
What a waste of taxpayers money! Surely the time and energy spent on this campaign could have been better spent elsewhere?
Would this seriously deter shoplifters or pickpockets??
Gwent Police seem only concerned with catching motorists and erecting cardboard cut outs.
I'd sooner see real policemen! In fairness there are now more beat police in evidence around the streets of Caerffili than there has been for a few years. I have spoken to police, of various ranks, and all agree that this policy does work in reducing crime.
I am very happy to see this police presence but I am concerned that this is just a temporary effort put in place since the full time police station, in the town for more than 100 years, closed. Let's hope not.
Hi Richard, I'd like to see the true 'independant' figures for the amount of crime it actually reduces.
The issue as I see it is not 'more beat Police in evidence' but the focus and efforts of the Police Officers who are on the beat.
For example: One close to home police station used to have a film night on a Friday and they would order a curry in whilst they were at 'work'.
I would like 'politicians' or representatives of the electorate to quote response times to 999 calls and percentages of the working day the Police actually tackle serious crime which affect the public.