Police Commissioner Richard Chambers has criticised a recent internal directive instructing staff not to investigate theft and fraud cases under set monetary thresholds, calling it “confusing and unhelpful.”
The memo, which included limits such as $500 for shoplifting and $200 for general theft, sparked concern after being revealed by state-funded media.
Chambers clarified that retail crime remains a top priority and emphasised police must continue pursuing offenders regardless of the thresholds. He has directed all district commanders to reinforce this approach and highlighted successful enforcement examples in Tauranga and Gisborne.
Image credit: Kindel Media
