Prolific Hove shoplifter jailed
Goods worth ÂŁ1,800 were stolen from a Co-op store during 30 recorded incidents
A prolific shoplifter who repeatedly targeted a Co-op store in Hove has been jailed for six months.
Phillip Walker stole goods such as alcohol and other items from the store in Blatchington Road during a two-month spree this summer.
The 30 recorded crimes cost the business more than ÂŁ1,800 between July and September.
The 39-year-old, of no fixed address, admitted the shop theft offences at Brighton Magistrates’ Court on September 29.
Sussex Police’s Business Crime lead Christopher Neilson said: “We are working in partnership with the Co-op to identify suspects and prevent thefts.
“Thanks to evidence being uploaded, our Business Crime Team in the Investigation and Resolution Centre were able to build a strong case.
“It meant Walker was identified, arrested, and remanded to appear in court, where he then had no choice but to plead guilty.
“This case demonstrates our determination to catch offenders by working effectively in partnership with businesses.”