Prolific shoplifter jailed after stealing more than £1,100 worth of goods from shops

A prolific Hampshire shoplifter has been jailed after stealing more than £1,100 worth of goods from shops.

Daniel Gregory, 34, of no fixed address, targeted a number of stores including Tesco Express on Spring Road and Co-op Portsmouth Road, Southampton, between April and September this year, stealing a variety of goods including food and household products.

While committing these offences Gregory was also in breach of a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO), which prohibited him from entering Co-op and Tesco stores across Hampshire.

He was subsequently charged with 15 counts of theft from a shop and 15 breaches of a Criminal Behaviour Order. Gregory appeared at Southampton Crown Court on Tuesday 29 September, where he was sentenced to 16 months in prison.

PC Sophie Carter, who led the investigation, said: "Despite being subject to a Criminal Behaviour Order, Daniel Gregory continued to ignore the restrictions placed upon him and target businesses across Southampton.

"Over a number of months, he repeatedly targeted stores across the city, causing financial losses to businesses and distress to members of staff who were simply carrying out their jobs.

"Shoplifting is not a victimless crime. This sentence reflects the seriousness of his offending and sends a clear message that persistent shoplifting and breaches of court orders will not be tolerated. We will continue to work closely with retailers to identify offenders, bring them before the courts and take robust action against those who continue to target local businesses.

"I hope this result reassures retailers that we take reports of shoplifting seriously and remain committed to protecting businesses and their staff from repeat offenders."