A shoplifter has been jailed following thefts of high-value items from high street stores and supermarkets across Kent.
Between 22 September and 28 October 2023, items including alcohol, perfumes and groceries were taken from businesses in Deal, Broadstairs, Sandwich, Ramsgate and Tunbridge Wells. Cash was also stolen from a pub in Tunbridge Wells.
Officers investigating the offences scoured CCTV and spoke to a number of witnesses which led to the arrest of Ryan Prior, 29, who was charged with 12 counts of shoplifting and one of attempted shoplifting, along with two counts of burglary other than dwelling.
Prior, of no fixed address, admitted to the charges at Folkestone Magistrates’ Court on 4 November and was sentenced on the same day to 40 weeks’ imprisonment.
PC Alexander Dockrill, from the Victim Based Crime Team, said:
‘Shoplifting is not a victimless crime, it can be devastating for businesses, and we will continue to do everything we can to ensure those committing these offences are charged and put before the courts.
‘We’re pleased that this investigation resulted in a jail sentence which I hope will serve as a deterrent to others who may be planning a shoplifting spree.’