A PROLIFIC shoplifter from Exeter has been jailed after admitting to 53 offences.

Stevie Lee Palmer, aged 32, of no fixed abode in Exeter, received a 52-week prison sentence at Exeter Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, August 7 after pleading guilty to 15 counts of shop theft.

Palmer admitted to a further 31 shoplifting offences and seven counts of breaching bail conditions, which were taken into consideration upon sentencing.

As well as being jailed for 52 weeks, Palmer has also been issued with a Criminal Behaviour Order which bans him from entering a number of stores in Exeter city centre, Exe bridges, St Thomas and Alphington.

The Criminal Behaviour Order will be in place for three years.

Sergeant Matt Beards who leads the Neighbourhood Policing Team in Exeter City Centre said: ‘Shop theft is not a victimless crime. Goods stolen by Palmer totalled £1480.20, and we recognise that this would have had a significant impact on local businesses.

‘We also understand that these offences can also be challenging for people working in the affected shops, and I would like to thank each and every person who reported thefts and provided evidence that allowed us to target this offender.

‘The criminal behaviour order is a proactive tool that will help us to manage Palmer robustly when he is eventually released, and we will continue to work with local retailers to bring thieves to justice’.

Concerns relating to crime or anti-social behaviour should be reported to Devon & Cornwall Police by calling 101 or using the appropriate form on the force website: Report a crime | Devon & Cornwall Police.

Always call 999 in an emergency or if a crime is in progress.