The Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) has urged retailers to fully explain the impact of crime on themselves, their staff and businesses.
Speaking at the ACS Crime Prevention Forum today, chief executive James Lowman advised retailers affect by crime to provide as much information as possible to courts through Victim Personal Statements to highlight the effects of a robbery or attack.
“Victim Personal Statements are really important to Magistrates and Courts, providing them with a richer picture of the circumstances and impact,” he said. “This equips them to deliver a more informed and appropriate sentencing decision. They are different from witness statements as they focus on the impact of crime on the individual – emotionally, physically or financially.”
The ACS is also preparing guidance for Victim Personal Statements to help retailers put across the full impact of retail crime, and it is working with the Ministry of Justice on the review of the Victims Code.
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