New figures show shoplifting offences recorded by Dorset Police have risen sharply over the past five years.
Data analysed from the House of Commons Library reveals cases increased from 2,426 in 2020 to 5,120 last year.
That represents a rise of more than 111 per cent.
The figures also show just over 23 per cent of cases resulted in a charge in the most recent year.
Vikki Slade says the increase is having a serious impact on local businesses.
She is calling for a return to neighbourhood policing, including staffed police counters and a greater visible presence.
The MP says small businesses are under pressure from rising costs and cannot afford continued losses from theft.
She has also urged wider reforms to support high streets and improve policing resources in the area.
Police have not commented directly on the figures but continue to encourage reporting of retail crime.
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