Shoplifter Apprehended with Assistance from Two Six-Year-Olds

An individual known for multiple shoplifting offenses has been incarcerated, thanks to the intervention of two six-year-old girls who informed pursuing police officers that he was concealed behind a bush. These observant young individuals located Alan Morris hiding in a garden as he attempted to evade law enforcement in Blackpool on 7 November. When the 31-year-old man, who has no fixed address, attempted to silence them, Lancashire Police reported that the courageous young witnesses responded by shouting: “I’m not shushing!” Morris admitted guilt to 21 counts of shoplifting and one charge of interfering with a vehicle, resulting in a nine-month prison sentence handed down at Preston Magistrates’ Court. Additionally, Morris received a three-year criminal behaviour order prohibiting his entry into any Asda or Tesco store located in Blackpool. According to Lancashire Police, officers visited the girls during their school assembly, where they were awarded a certificate and chocolates. Sergeant Paul Regan commented: “We wouldn’t have been able to detain the offender anywhere near as quick as we did if it wasn’t for the help of these two girls.” He added: “They acted bravely and they should be very proud of themselves.” The finest content from BBC Radio Lancashire is available for listening on Sounds, and updates from BBC Lancashire can be followed on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story suggestions may also be submitted to northwest.newsonline@bbc.co.uk or via Whatsapp at 0808 100 2230. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content found on external websites. Details concerning our approach to external linking are available.