CROOKS who try to Christmas shop on the cheap are being targeted by a police campaign.
Officers are removing persistent pickpockets from the crowds in a campaign against teams of shoplifters and thieves in Hartlepool.
This year's campaign also involves the mounted section patrolling the main shopping centres.
Detective Superintendent Mark Braithwaite, Hartlepool's crime manager, said: "Every Christmas we run a highly successful policing operation in Hartlepool. This year, as well as providing extra officers on patrol, we are linking up with local retailers, security staff and CCTV operators in a fully coordinated operation against Yuletide thieves.
"My message to shoppers is, 'Help us to help you; if you are using the car, use secure, well-lit car parks and don't leave valuables on view. While you are out shopping, take care with your purses and wallets and don't become the pickpockets' next victim'."
The programme has been welcomed by Hartlepool retailers
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