Two individuals who stole numerous items from a Co-op in Dartford have been immediately sent to prison. The theft occurred on Friday, July 18, 2025, at the Co-op in Oldfield Place.
Upon entering the shop, the pair separated. One headed to the meat aisle, spending several minutes filling a rucksack, while the other collected a basket and plastic bags. They later met up and continued to steal a variety of goods, including energy drinks, toiletries, cleaning items, and laundry products. One of the offenders managed to leave the store with their stolen goods, but the other was confronted by a staff member before exiting with two bags of stolen items. Police were promptly alerted and swiftly attended the scene, leading to the arrest of both criminals. The man and woman, aged 40 and 35, both of no fixed address, were later charged with theft. They pleaded guilty at their first hearing before Medway Magistrates’ Court on Saturday, July 19. The woman was immediately jailed for 112 days, and the man for 70 days. Both will also be required to compensate the victim.
Inspector Lee Cheesman said:
‘Our local officers are on patrol in the town centres and are quick to respond to reports of crime. Where shoplifting has been committed, they generally know those responsible and will track them down at the earliest opportunity. Persistent offenders can expect to be charged and will swiftly appear before magistrates to answer for their crimes.’