A 43-year-old man has been sentenced to six weeks in prison after stealing more than £230 worth of goods from three shops in the Basingstoke area over a two-month period.
John Wagstaff, of Sunnymead, Oakley, targeted local stores between 9 May and 3 July this year, taking alcohol, meat and confectionery items.
The thefts occurred at Co-op on Oakley Lane in Oakley, Co-op on Wallingford Road in Basingstoke, and One Stop on Guinea Court in Chineham.
Wagstaff faced nine charges of theft from a shop and admitted guilt to all offences when he appeared at Basingstoke Magistrates Court on 17 July.
PC Ross Holdsworth from the Basingstoke Rural Neighbourhood Policing Team commented: “We know John Wagstaff’s actions have caused a huge impact on our local businesses, shop workers and community.
“We take all reports of shoplifting extremely seriously and I hope this result reassures the community that we will do all we can to put offenders before the courts.”
Police are encouraging shop owners and staff to continue reporting shoplifting incidents, emphasising that information provided enables them to take action, including arrests, charges and court convictions.
Reports can be made by calling 101 or through the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary website. For crimes in progress, the public should call 999.
