A prolific shoplifter from Hereford has been sentenced at court to a total of 26 weeks following a successful investigation by the city centre team.

Jamie Ellis, 33, of no fixed abode, appeared before Kidderminster Magistrates Court yesterday (Monday 28 July) charged with seven counts of theft from shop between Friday 11 July and Wednesday 23 July.

Ellis was sentenced to a total of 26 weeks and ordered to pay a total of £175 compensation.

Police Sergeant Duncan Reynolds of the Hereford city centre team said: “Yesterday, one of our most prolific shoplifters was sentenced to 26 weeks for seven counts of shoplifting.

“He was swiftly dealt with by the courts following his arrest and we hope this custodial term sends a message to anyone else thinking of stealing from retailers that we will arrest you and put you before the courts and you too could be facing time in prison for your crimes.”