A PERSISTENT shoplifter has been jailed for committing a string of offences in and around Leamington.
John Williams, aged 35, of no fixed abode, was sentenced to 12 months in prison at Coventry Magistrates Court on Friday November 28 and ordered to pay costs and a surcharge of £227.
Williams was originally arrested in October for a series of theft offences.
While on bail he went on to commit a further 39 offences, stealing a range of items including food, beauty products and household items.
Staff at the stores he had targeted identified him and he was further arrested in November and charged with more than 60 counts of theft from a shop and one charge of possession of cannabis.
Sergeant Matt Humphris, from Warwickshire Police, said: “We act quickly when businesses report crime because we’re committed to keeping shops and staff safe. Repeat or serious offenders like Williams face prison because shoplifting is not a victimless crime – it harms businesses, communities and can lead to further offending.
“This sentence shows persistent offenders will be brought to justice, and we’ll keep working with businesses to improve security and deter crime. Local retailers tell us seeing offenders held accountable builds confidence in reporting.
“We also recognise Williams’ vulnerabilities and hope he receives the help and support he needs while serving his sentence.”
