Man charged with shoplifting and assault offences following proactive policing operation in Shirley, Southampton

A man has been charged following a proactive policing operation targeting shoplifting and anti-social behaviour on Shirley High Street on Monday (6 January).

Patrolling officers spotted a man they suspected to have been involved in shoplifting outside of the Co-op store on the corner of Howard Road, and on entering the shop they saw the man assaulting a member of staff.

He was arrested and items including chocolate and beauty products, suspected to have been stolen from other stores, were located.

The member of staff, who is in his 20s, sustained minor injuries to his face.

Martyn Paul Goddard, 38, of Millbrook Road West, has now been charged with assault and two counts of theft. 

This charge has been achieved as a result of Operation Gatewatch, which is the dedicated work being carried out in Shirley to address shoplifting and anti-social behaviour.

Operation Gatewatch, which has been in place since 2023, sees officers regularly patrol Shirley High Street and the surrounding areas, both in uniform and plain clothes, to tackle those committing crime and causing harm locally. While our focus is on local stores and supporting shop staff, Operation Gatewatch also focuses on anti-social behaviour in the area that is connected with theft and shoplifting.

This work is ongoing and, as well as dedicated patrols and operations, we are also working closely with local businesses and other agencies on a strong, long-term solution to the issues faced by retailers, shop staff and shoppers.

Goddard appeared at Southampton Magistrates Court yesterday (Tuesday 7 January), and is next scheduled to appear on October 13th.