Simon Spencer, aged 51, has been jailed following a series of thefts involving household goods and food items from various supermarkets across Derbyshire between January and June.
Officers from the Force Proactive Team apprehended Spencer in Codnor as he attempted to steal tins of tuna from Farmfoods. His offences targeted well-known supermarket chains including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Farm Foods, and One Stop, with thefts occurring in locations such as Ripley, Alfreton, Derby, Long Eaton, Sawley, Sandiacre, and Codnor.
Over several months, Spencer stole items including dishwasher tablets, food, and wine, with the total value of stolen goods exceeding £3,000. These thefts impacted multiple stores across Derbyshire, causing significant disruption.
Despite the extent of his offending, Spencer managed to evade police for a number of months and was subject to a wanted appeal. The Force Proactive Team, a specialist unit dedicated to tackling crime affecting local communities, was tasked with locating him.
On 2 June, Spencer was caught in the act inside Farmfoods in Codnor, attempting to steal 20 tins of tuna. Officers arrested the 51-year-old, who has no fixed address, and charged him with 23 offences of shop theft.
Spencer pleaded guilty to all charges and was sentenced to 46 weeks in custody at Southern Derbyshire Magistrates’ Court on 4 June.
Originally published by UKNIP.
