Penalty Notice for Disorder Issued at Colindale Police Station for Shoplifting

The police issued our client with a Penalty Notice for Disorder at Colindale Police Station for an allegation of shoplifting in August 2025.

The allegation against our client was that they attempted to leave a clothing store without paying for a number of items.

The police indicated that the store manager had provided a statement and that CCTV footage captured the incident.

When attending Colindale Police Station, we reviewed the evidence in light of our client’s account. As they admitted to committing the offence alleged, we advised our client to answer all police questions during the interview. The reason for this advice was that the police indicated to us that they would be eligible for an out-of-court disposal, namely, a Penalty Notice for Disorder, if they admitted to the offence. Furthermore, they were likely to be charged to attend court if they did not admit to the offence as the evidence against them was strong.

As a result of our advice and our client’s cooperation, the police issued a Penalty Notice for Disorder and the matter was concluded out-of-court.

To be found guilty of theft contrary to Section 1 of the Theft Act 1968, the police/prosecution must prove that a person dishonestly appropriated property belonging to another with the intention of permanently depriving them of it.

There are defences available to theft. Defences can include ownership of the goods, lack of intention or lack of dishonesty, among others.

Our expert lawyer was able to assess the evidence available at the time alongside our client’s account and provide the best advice for the interview. The advice given to answer questions allowed him to put forward his account and facilitate an out-of-court disposal.

We represent clients at the Police Station on a 24-hour basis 7 days a week and have experts who deal with all types of offences. We are highly regarded as leading and specialist defence solicitors, having achieved many successful outcomes.