Shoplifter jailed for 86 weeks after theft spree in Devon stores
A prolific shoplifter from Torquay has been jailed for 86 weeks after being convicted of stealing thousands of pounds worth of items from shops across Devon.
Ian Anderson, aged 57, of Madrepore Road, appeared at Plymouth Magistrates Court on Saturday 7 November and was put behind bars.
The thief stole a range of items including a motorcycle helmet, plumbing supplies, clothing, reading glasses, chocolate and sweets, suntan lotion, luggage, football cards and perfume.
The offences took place between late September and early November this year and the items stolen came to a total value of more than £3,300.
Torquay Sector Inspector Rob Harvey explained: “This week is Safer Business Action Week (SaBA) which highlights the ongoing response by police and partners to tackling retail crime in our local communities. We also address anti-social behaviour against staff and other crimes impacting local businesses.
“Anderson being jailed, after a string of shoplifting offences, was a very positive start to the week and we will continue to target those that are causing harm to the retail community. We have further action planned this week and beyond to support them.”
The sentence of 86 weeks imprisonment combined both new sentences and the activation of recent suspended sentences for other matters
The shops targeted by Anderson’s shoplifting were Bridge Motorcycles in Exeter, Wickes in Torquay, Jack’s Patch garden centre in Bishopsteignton, Boots in Newton Abbot, Home Bargains in Torquay, Morrisons, Totnes and Bill Opticians, Totnes.
Anderson was ordered to pay a total of £1,650 compensation to the stores affected.
If you wish to get advice on business crime please visit our website Business crime prevention | Devon & Cornwall Police
You can also report crime via Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.
Devon & Cornwall Police is one of up to 16 police forces in England and Wales due to take part in a new Prolific Retail Offender Pilot, announced by the Home Secretary this week as part of Safer Business Action Week (SaBA) and a national partnership focus on tackling shop theft and abuse against retail workers.
Under the programme, participating forces will each identify a cohort of around 30 of their most prolific offenders, intensifying efforts to stop their offending and working in partnership to address its root causes.
The Home Office has proposed an initial £2.5 million in overall funding for participating forces and local partners, tailored to what is needed in each area. Activity is due to start in stages from early next year, with full programme delivery beginning in the spring and running for 12 months.
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