Shoplifter who targeted multiple retailers jailed

A shoplifter has been jailed for more than 18 months after pleading guilty to several offences in South Gloucestershire.

John Iles, 46, of no fixed abode, was sentenced to 82 weeks in prison at Bristol Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday 12 August.

Iles was charged with nine counts of shop theft and one count of parcel theft and was charged with the offences on Tuesday 11 August.

He targeted several retailers, including supermarkets and convenience stores, in Bradley Stoke, Downend and Staple Hill.

He also stole hundreds of pounds worth of steaks from Aldi and Tesco and has been ordered to pay compensation of varying amounts to the businesses he targeted.

PC James Mullin, officer in the case, said: “We welcome the custodial sentence which has been handed to Iles, who is a prolific shoplifter who shows a total disregard for his actions.

“Shoplifting is not a victimless crime and the harm it can cause businesses and the wider community is immeasurable.

“Not only does the loss of merchandise effect the running of a business, but the theft and related anti-social behaviour can cause harassment, alarm and distress to shop owners and staff.”