A wanted man is now behind bars after a police appeal on social media led to the force being 'inundated with phone calls', prompting him to hand himself in.
From Social Media Appeal to Arrest
Sean Wilson, 38, was circulated as wanted by West Midlands Police last weekend after he stole items, including alcohol, from several shops in the Sandwell area. Officers revealed he even took his own plastic bag to carry out the thefts.
The appeal, shared across social media channels, quickly gained traction. Sgt Jason Walters confirmed that his team were able to quickly locate and arrest Wilson as a direct result of the public's engagement with the online posts.
Guilty Plea and Sentence
Wilson subsequently handed himself in to police on Monday, 18 November. He was charged and appeared at Wolverhampton Magistrates' Court on the same day.
The 38-year-old pleaded guilty to six counts of theft as well as a charge of failing to appear at a previous court hearing. The magistrates sentenced him to 16 weeks in prison.
Police Praise Public Engagement
Following the sentencing, Sgt Walters expressed his gratitude, stating: "Wilson had been inundated with phone calls from people who knew him after they had seen our appeal. He felt he had no choice but to call us and hand himself in."
He emphasised the crucial role the public plays, adding, "Public engagement plays a crucial role in our ability to bring offenders to justice. Working together, we can continue to tackle retail crime and keep Sandwell’s retailers safe."
A police spokesperson confirmed that the wanted appeal was issued on Saturday, 15 November, leading to Wilson's arrest and subsequent imprisonment.
