Thief Nabbed After £1,400 West Sussex Shoplifting Spree
David Blann, 36, from East Preston, will keep out of jail after storming West Sussex supermarkets and swiping over £1,400 worth of goods. Between March and July, he struck 25 times and even tried to nick more in a failed attempt.
Fast Arrest Sees Blann Plead Guilty
Blann was caught red-handed on 18 July and charged straight away. He didn’t fight the charges and pleaded guilty at Worthing Magistrates’ Court. On 22 September, he was handed a 17-week prison sentence—but it’s suspended for 12 months, giving him another chance.
Police Slam Retail Theft’s Toll
Sussex Police condemned the crime spree for leaving local supermarkets and staff struggling. Sergeant Amelia Roberts said:
“Retail crime has a real impact on shop workers and the community. We remain committed to tackling offenders and supporting businesses.”
Operation Apprentice Cracks Down on Shoplifters
The blaze of arrests is part of Operation Apprentice, a tough Sussex Police campaign aimed at smashing repeat shoplifting rings and protecting local retailers from theft and chaos.
