A serial shoplifter has been handed an 18-week prison sentence following a three-week alcohol theft spree across Shropshire that saw him steal over £1,100 worth of goods while in breach of a court order.
Persistent Offender Breaches Court Order
Gareth Jones, a 39-year-old man of no fixed abode, appeared before Telford Magistrates Court where he admitted to five separate theft offences alongside four breaches of his existing Criminal Behaviour Order. The court heard how Jones targeted multiple stores in both Telford and Whitchurch during a sustained period of offending that spanned from December 22nd, 2025 through to January 14th, 2026.
Pattern of Alcohol Thefts
Police investigations revealed that Jones specifically targeted alcohol products during his shoplifting campaign, accumulating stolen goods valued at £1,156 across the three-week period. His criminal activities came to an end when officers arrested him on Thursday, January 15th, following a coordinated response to the series of retail thefts.
The sentencing on Saturday, January 17th marked a significant outcome for local law enforcement, with the 18-week custodial term reflecting both the financial impact of the thefts and the deliberate breach of the court-imposed restrictions.
Police Response to Retail Crime
Sergeant Rich Jones of West Mercia Police emphasised the force's commitment to tackling repeat offenders, stating: "We are committed to arresting and putting repeat shoplifters before the courts. We are pleased with the sentence given to Jones which will prevent further offences and protect our local businesses."
The police spokesperson further explained the broader impact of such crimes, noting: "Shoplifting doesn't just cause financial loss, it also affects staff who are left to manage the fallout of these incidents. My team will keep working closely with retailers to provide crime prevention support, and ensure those responsible are held to account."
Criminal Behaviour Order Violation
Court documents revealed that Jones was subject to a five-year Criminal Behaviour Order that had been imposed in October 2025, making his subsequent theft offences particularly serious violations of court-mandated restrictions. The CBO had been specifically designed to prevent exactly this type of recurring criminal behaviour.
This case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by retailers in the region and the judicial system's approach to dealing with persistent offenders who continue criminal activities despite court interventions.
