Doncaster, September 19 — A 29-year-old man has been sentenced to one year after committing a staggering 19 thefts in less than a month across two One Stop shops in Balby. Jack Allchurch, who was identified as a prolific offender, stole over £2,000 worth of goods in a reckless spree that spanned just 23 days.
Allchurch’s thefts were captured on CCTV, revealing a bold approach to shoplifting. He stole deodorant, jars of coffee, dog treats, and chocolate. Notably, he did not attempt to pay for the stolen products.
The arrest was made possible due to the diligent efforts of the Doncaster Central Neighbourhood Policing Team’s retail crime unit, which collaborated closely with local retailers and partners. Officers recognized a pattern in Allchurch’s crimes, leading to his swift identification.
In light of the compelling evidence against him, Allchurch pleaded guilty to 19 counts of theft. He was sentenced at Doncaster Magistrates’ Court on September 18.
Sergeant Steve Roberts of the Doncaster Central NPT commented, “Allchurch’s offending was prolific and impulsive as he grabbed whatever items he could off the shelves before quickly exiting. He had no intention of ever paying for those products, and thanks to the intelligence and evidence gathered against him, we’ve been able to secure justice.”
Roberts emphasized the importance of community involvement in combating retail crime, stating, “Shoplifters might think they are untouchable, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. We have worked hard to build strong partnerships with businesses and key agencies. Our dedicated retail crime team gathers vital intelligence on known shoplifters, ensuring justice prevails.”
He urged the public and businesses to report shoplifting incidents promptly, as quick action can help identify offenders and spot patterns of behaviour. “If you have been a victim of shoplifting, please report it to us on 101 or 999 in an emergency. The sooner we know about an incident, the sooner we can act,” he added.
This case highlights the ongoing commitment of local law enforcement to tackle retail crime and ensure the safety and security of businesses in the Doncaster area.
