The letter from Ms H Lynch (Distressed shoplifting lad, September 28) beggars belief.

Is she seriously worried about the "human rights" of a thief? Unfortunately the bleeding heart' liberal attitude displayed by her and many others like her in the borough is indirectly contributing to the growing crime wave that we are all having to put up with.

More power to the police I say, and special thanks goes to the security guard at WH Smith who was doing the job he is paid to do. Whoever this lad was he was only distressed and crying because he was caught.

If Ms Lynch is in the sad position of being burgled one day, will she then worry about "human rights"? I think not.

COUN DAVID PICKLES Belmont ward