A prolific shoplifter who stole thousands of pounds worth of goods from retailers across Medway has been jailed for 16 weeks and banned from entering stores with a bag upon his release.
Ryan Heathcote, 37, from Gillingham, pleaded guilty to five counts of theft at Medway Magistrates’ Court on August 6. The charges stem from a series of thefts that occurred between May 7 and May 22, 2025, targeting a Co-op, Aldi, and Lidl in Gillingham, as well as a Primark in Chatham. Police arrested Heathcote on August 4 after he was spotted by a patrol. Items stolen included whiskey, meat, cheese, clothing, and cleaning products.
In addition to his 16-week sentence, Heathcote was ordered to pay compensation to the businesses he stole from. Upon his release from prison, he will be subject to a two-year criminal behaviour order that prohibits him from possessing a bag while inside any retail establishment.
Inspector Jason Szarek said:
‘Our neighbourhood officers know Heathcote and were quick to arrest him when he was spotted in Gillingham town centre. We are determined to protect our retailers from thieves like him and, on his release from prison, the conditions of a criminal behaviour order should restrict his offending. Should he breach these conditions and be seen in a shop with a bag or holdall, he will be swiftly detained and taken back before the court to answer for his actions.’