Staff threatened during Co-op store robberies in Faversham

Incidents at Faversham Co-op

According to an article published by Kentlive on 22 May 2025, a man has been charged following a series of thefts and an assault at a Co-op store located on Forbes Road in Faversham. Kentlive reports that staff members at the premises were threatened during incidents involving the theft of alcohol, coffee, and washing products.

The police investigation, which included the review of CCTV footage, led to the arrest of 26-year-old Billy Bird on 16 May. He has been charged with two thefts and an assault related to the store, as well as four additional shop thefts, criminal damage, and assaults on emergency workers. The suspect appeared before Folkestone Magistrates’ Court on 17 May and has been conditionally bailed until 16 June.

Chief Inspector Allen Searle noted that local neighbourhood teams are actively working to support businesses and track down those targeting retail premises. Official figures indicate a 4.9% reduction in shoplifting within the Swale area over the past 12 months.

Business owners are encouraged to maintain updated security systems and ensure staff are trained on safety protocols when encountering shoplifters.

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Source : Kentlive