A prolific shoplifter, Layton Richards, has been sentenced to eight months in prison for stealing a staggering 798 Cadbury's Creme Eggs, along with other goods worth thousands of pounds. The 29-year-old, from Brownlow Close in Portsmouth, was found guilty of 24 shoplifting offences committed across Hampshire, Dorset, and West Sussex between January and April 2023.
Portsmouth Magistrates' Court heard how Richards targeted 19 different stores, making off with a total of £3,463.96 worth of merchandise. The majority of the stolen goods were Creme Eggs, highlighting a bizarre focus on the popular Easter treat.
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary stated that Richards' spree had a significant impact on both individual businesses and the wider retail community. The force has been working closely with retailers to combat the issue of repeat offenders and provide support to victims of shoplifting.
Ch Insp Marcus Cator of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Police highlighted the importance of tackling persistent offenders: âThis sentence is a direct result of our ongoing efforts to target prolific criminals and ensure they are held accountable for their actions. We are committed to working in partnership with retailers to protect them and their customers from such persistent and intimidating criminal behaviour.â
The conviction and subsequent jail sentence serve as a stark warning to individuals who engage in shoplifting. It demonstrates the police's dedication to bringing offenders to justice and safeguarding the retail sector from such criminal activity.