Shoplifting prosecution threshold 109/2026

FOI Reference: 109/2026

Request:

I am seeking clarification on your force’s current position regarding the investigation and prosecution of shoplifting offences.

On 27 January 2026, the Home Secretary publicly stated that the previously referenced £200 threshold for shoplifting has been removed, and that all shoplifting offences should now be investigated regardless of value, with prosecution pursued where necessary.

Could you please confirm:

1. Whether your force is now investigating all reported shoplifting offences irrespective of the monetary value involved.
2. Whether any internal guidance, policies, or operational thresholds remain in place that affect whether a shoplifting offence is formally investigated or referred for prosecution.
3. Whether the removal of the £200 threshold has resulted in any changes to your force’s charging or case-submission practices.

Response 1:

I can confirm that Dyfed-Powys Police does hold the information requested, as outlined below.

The force investigates all shoplifting where there are reasonable lines of enquiry that could lead to identifying a suspect. We do not triage shoplifting crime purely based on monetary value, however will consider the proportionality of the response based on a number of factors.

Response 2:

I can confirm that Dyfed-Powys Police does hold the information requested, as outlined below.

There are agreed processes in place relating to the investigation of shoplifting offences. New procedures were introduced in July 2025 where all shoplifting offences with reasonable lines of enquiry are sent to a local officer for investigation, in addition to a review conducted by the neighbourhood policing team to consider a problem-solving approach.

Response 3:

I can confirm that Dyfed-Powys Police does hold the information requested, as outlined below.

We have not applied a £200 threshold to shoplifting crime in recent years. The offences are assessed for solvability considering many factors leading to a proportionate response.                                               

(This is a response under the Freedom of Information Act 2000 and disclosed on 12/02/2026)