Torquay man jailed after stealing thousands of pounds from Devon shops
Ian Anderson stole items ranging from chocolate to luggage and a helmet
A prolific shoplifter from Torquay has been sentenced to over a year and a half in prison after being convicted of stealing items worth thousands of pounds from various shops across Devon.
Ian Anderson, 57, of Madrepore Road, appeared at Plymouth Magistrates Court on November 7th, where he was sentenced to a total of 86 weeks imprisonment for a string of shoplifting offences.
Anderson targeted several stores, stealing items that included a motorcycle helmet, plumbing supplies, clothing, reading glasses, chocolate, sweets, suntan lotion, luggage, football cards, and perfume.
The total value of the stolen goods amounted to over £3,300, with offences occurring from late September to early November.
Stores affected by Anderson’s thefts included Bridge Motorcycles in Exeter, Wickes in Torquay, Jack’s Patch garden centre in Bishopsteignton, Boots in Newton Abbot, Home Bargains in Torquay, Morrisons and Bill Opticians in Totnes.
Torquay Sector Inspector Rob Harvey commented on the timing of Anderson’s sentencing coinciding with the start of Safer Business Action Week (SaBA).
Inspector Harvey noted that the initiative highlights the ongoing efforts by police to tackle retail crime and associated anti-social behaviour against staff and businesses.
He emphasized the positive impact of Anderson’s imprisonment and the plans to continue addressing harms to the retail community.
Anderson was also ordered to pay a total of £1,650 in compensation to the affected stores.
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