A prolific shoplifter has been sentenced following multiple counts of shoplifting across the Herts and Northamptonshire.

Chris Cairncross, 36, of no fixed abode, from the Harpenden area, was sentenced to 22 weeks imprisonment at Hatfield Remand Court on Tuesday, October 8.

He pleaded guilty to five thefts of food, including meat, and alcohol from the BP Marks and Spencer in Harpenden, Waitrose and Sainsbury’s between September 23, and October 2, 2024.

He also committed a further three thefts in Northamptonshire.  

Cairncross admitted criminal damage to Harpenden Building Society on October 2 and six breaches of his Community Protection Notice (CPN), which includes not begging or leaving rubbish in Harpenden.

Harpenden Neighbourhood Sergeant Mark Essam said: “Cairncross has been causing problems in Harpenden, including begging. 

"We have referred him to partner services, but he refused help with his lifestyle, and he disregarded the conditions of his CPN on six occasions as well as stealing over £200 worth of food and alcohol.”

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The sentencing comes during a St Albans police crackdown on shoplifting due to a significant increase. 

In line with a national trend, St Albans and London Colney has experienced an increase in the number of shoplifting offences now averaging about 100 a month - there were 650 offences in just five months from April to September.

St Albans district Chief Inspector Martin Turpin said: “We know who our main shoplifters are, and we are working with security staff and advising shops about improving CCTV opportunities. 

"Traditionally, shoplifting goes up in the run up to Christmas, so we are trying to deter and prevent it from happening.

“We will arrest shoplifters and we will continue to release photos of potential shoplifters if we need help identifying people."

As part of Safer Business Action Week, which starts on Monday, October 14, a dedicated team of plain clothed and high-visibility officers will work with security staff at shops in St Albans city centre, Colney Fields shopping centre in London Colney.

Other shops including the Co-op in Cell Barnes Lane will also be monitored to target prolific offenders and opportunist thieves.