A prolific shoplifter from Southwark has been ordered to pay compensation after stealing £130 worth of items from a Boots store in Waterloo.
Stephen Armstrong, 37, who has 33 previous convictions for 73 offences, was found guilty of theft at Croydon Magistrates’ Court following the incident at the Lower Marsh Boots on Thursday, May 8.
Bizarre Defence Falls Flat
Upon being apprehended, Armstrong reportedly told officers:
“I often get confused for my brother – it must have been him.”
However, this defence quickly unraveled when Inspector Watson confirmed Armstrong’s brother was in prison at the time of the offence.
Armstrong was charged and remanded in custody before appearing in court on Wednesday, May 14, where he was ordered to pay £130 in compensation to the retailer.
Police Statement
A Metropolitan Police spokesperson commented:
“Another prolific retail crime offender arrested in Waterloo after being identified for an offence five days ago.
Might struggle with that defence given his brother is and was in prison at the time of offence.”
They added:
“Stephen Armstrong, aged 37 from Southwark, was found guilty at Croydon Magistrates’ Court and sentenced to repay the victim £130 in compensation.”
Retail Crime Crackdown
The case underscores the continued efforts by the Met Police to clamp down on repeat offenders targeting retail premises, particularly in high-footfall areas such as central London.
