A PROLIFIC shoplifter who targeted shops in Newton Abbot and Bishopsteignton has been jailed for over a year after stealing more than £3,300 worth of goods from Devon businesses.

Ian Anderson, pictured, appeared at Plymouth Magistrates’ Court on Saturday, November 7, where he was sentenced to a total of 86 weeks in prison.

Among the businesses targeted by Anderson, 57, were Boots in Newton Abbot and Jack’s Patch garden centre in Bishopsteignton.

Anderson, of Madrepore Road, Torquay, also targeted Bridge Motorcycles in Exeter, Wickes and Home Bargains in Torquay, and Morrisons and Bill Opticians in Totnes.

The thefts took place between late September and early November, with Anderson stealing a wide range of goods, including a motorcycle helmet, plumbing supplies, clothing reading glasses, chocolate, sweets, luggage, perfume and football cards.

As well as the prison sentence, Anderson was ordered to pay a total of £1,650 in compensation to the businesses affected.

The sentence of 86 weeks imprisonment combined both new sentences and the activation of recent suspended sentences for other matters.

Torquay sector inspector, Rob Harvey, said: ‘This week is Safer Business Action Week (SaBA) which highlights the ongoing response by police and partners to tackling retail crime in our local communities.

‘We also address anti-social behaviour against staff and other crimes impacting local businesses.

‘Anderson being jailed, after a string of shoplifting offences, was a very positive start to the week and we will continue to target those that are causing harm to the retail community.

‘We have further action planned this week and beyond to support them’.

Devon & Cornwall Police is one of up to 16 police force due to take part in a new Prolific Retail Offender Pilot, announced by the Home Secretary this week as part of SaBA.

Under the programme, participating forces will each identify a cohort of around 30 of their most prolific offenders, intensifying efforts to stop their offending and working in partnership to address its root causes.