Serial shoplifter jailed for a year after Southampton stealing spree

A serial shoplifter's been jailed for a year for stealing 16-hundred pounds worth of goods from stores across Southampton.

James Robert Simpson, of no fixed abode, mainly stole chocolate, wine and detergent in his spree between April and November. During this time, he stole from the Sainsbury’s on Bedford Place six times and the One Stop store on Park Road seven times. He also targeted the Asda petrol station on Millbrook Road West, Basset Green Road Co-op, Boots on Portswood High Street as well as the One Stop store on Kendal Avenue.

Appearing at Southampton Magistrates Court on Thursday, Simpson pleaded guilty to the offences and was sentenced to 52 weeks in prison. On his release, he will also be subject to a Criminal Behaviour Order, preventing him from entering any One Stop or Co-op store, as well as a number of other specific stores which were targeted by him.

Southampton West Neighbourhood Policing Team Inspector Andy Proctor said: “Our high streets, shopping centres and convenience stores should be safe, crime-free spaces for shoppers, staff and visitors.

"Shoplifting is not a victimless crime, and we understand the impact it has on businesses and those working in retail. This blatant, selfish criminality is infuriating for us which is why we will continue our relentless pursuit of those repeatedly committing crime and causing distress.

“Thieves like Simpson should understand that their behaviour will not be tolerated and the impact that it has on its victims is not acceptable. We will track you down and do whatever is within our power to lock you up”.