Two people jailed for retail theft

Two "prolific offenders" of retail theft in Newquay have been jailed. Inspector Steve Johnson says that with the help of the Neighbourhoods Support Team and local retailers, they secured convictions last week.

The statement from Newquay Police confirms that a 52-year old man, of no fixed abode in Newquay, was convicted of breaching his criminal behaviour order, which was obtained as a result of numerous thefts in the Newquay area. His previous suspended sentence was activated, and he received an 18-week prison sentence.

A 42-year old woman, previously of Newquay, was convicted of 13 theft offences, with a further three taken into consideration. She was sentenced to 18 months in prison and issued a two-year criminal behaviour order upon release.

Both individuals were part of the local Shopwatch scheme. Officers stated that they had caused significant losses to businesses and created a considerable workload for the police.

Inspector Johnson added:
"Many of the officers at Newquay live and work here. We know local people and understand their problems, which is why we take this type of crime seriously. For many small business owners, being subjected to thefts such as this could mean the difference between taking a wage and not.

"So whilst we will always endeavour to get support for vulnerable people who feel they have no option but to commit crime, we also know business owners need protection from these individuals. These results last week should go some way to offer this."