A MAN has been jailed for “prolific” shoplifting in Reading.
Simon Hawkins, aged 36 and of no fixed abode, was sentenced to 16 months in jail at a hearing at Reading Crown Court on Monday, September 30, after pleading guilty to four counts of burglary (non-dwelling) and three further counts of shoplifting.
It follows a string of incidents which took place between March 14 and June 22, during which Hawkins targeted a number of Co-op branches on Overdown Road and South View Avenue.
He stole several items including alcohol, cigarettes and tobacco.
He was arrested on June 22 and charged the following day.
Investigating officer PC Vince Moore, part of the neighbourhood policing team for Reading town centre, said: “Simon Hawkins is a prolific shoplifter in Reading and I am pleased he is now behind bars.
“I hope this ruling sends a clear message to shoplifters that your behaviour will not be tolerated and you will be brought to justice.
“This sentence is just one result of an ongoing and dedicated focus under Operation Purchase on targeting our most prolific offenders as effectively as possible.”
