A HOMELESS man who targeted a convenience store in east Reading has been jailed for shoplifting.
Kingsley Haughton appeared at Reading Magistrates Court on Wednesday, December 13, where he pleaded guilty to three counts of theft from the Co-op store on London Road, and was put behind bars for 16 weeks.
On three occasions, on October 11 and 30, he stole 18 bottles of wine from the shelves of the Newtown supermarket.
The 47-year-old was arrested and charged on Tuesday, November 21.
His conviction is one of a number relating to shoplifting offences across the Reading area.
Thames Valley Police neighbourhood officer, PC Vince Moore, was pleased at Haughton’s conviction.
“Shoplifting is not a victimless crime. The financial and psychological impact on business owners and staff cannot be underestimated,” he said.
“Following a thorough investigation by Thames Valley Police, I’m pleased that faced with overwhelming evidence, Kingsley Haughton pleaded guilty to three counts of shoplifting and has been jailed.
“I hope this case serves as a warning to shoplifters that Thames Valley Police will investigate and bring offenders before the courts.”
