A PROLIFIC shoplifter in Reading has been jailed for a string of shoplifting charges.
Michael Butler, aged 36 and of no fixed abode, was sentenced to 42 weeks in prison following a hearing at Reading Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, March 25.
He pleaded guilty to nine counts of shoplifting and a further count of assault at the same hearing.
It followed several incidents which took place between February 13 and March 18, when Butler entered the Co-op store on London Road and, on eight separate occasions, stole a number of household goods, including coffee, meat, and alcohol.
He also stole items from the Co-op store on Overdown Road, Tilehurst.
On Tuesday, March 18, while attempting to steal items from the Shell garage on Oxford Road, Reading, he assaulted a member of staff.
He was arrested on Monday, March 24, and charged the following day.
Investigating officer PC Thomas Kelly, part of Reading’s neighbourhood policing team, said: “Michael Butler is a prolific offender in Reading, and has rightly been sentenced to prison following these offences.
“I hope this ruling sends a clear message to shoplifters that your behaviour will not be tolerated and you will be brought to justice.”
