Nottingham Shoplifter Caught After Serial Thefts and Begging Spree
Leigham Myers, 34, has been uncovered as the culprit behind a string of shop thefts across Clifton last November and December. Alongside stealing, he was also accused of persistently begging outside businesses in Clifton Lane, sparking complaints from locals.
Myers Admits to 14 Thefts and 6 Begging Offences
Appearing at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court on 5 January 2023, Myers pleaded guilty to 14 counts of shoplifting and six counts of begging. The Wilkins Gardens resident received a 16-week jail sentence, suspended for 12 months, and was ordered to complete a drugs rehabilitation programme.
Police Crack Down on Community Crime
“Shoplifting can be a serious blight on communities and will never be tolerated by Nottinghamshire Police,” said Police Constable Jane Gibson. “We work hard with our partners and local businesses to prevent this type of offending in the first place and crack down on the small number of individuals like Myers who are responsible for a disproportionate number of shop thefts.”
Neighbourhood Team Praises Community Response
Inspector Karl Thomas added: “We are really pleased as a neighbourhood team to have responded to repeated concerns from members of the public and local businesses in Clifton about this individual. Some people might think begging and shoplifting aren’t serious but in reality, they impact on the whole community.”
“Shop owners are left out of pocket and have to spend more on security. Antisocial behaviour can put people off visiting and shopping in the area. We want Clifton to be a brilliant place to live and work, and our police teams work hard every day to keep it that way.”