Shoplifter Strikes Three Stores in Swale, Jailed for Four Months
Rebecca Lee hit three town centre shops five times between 5 and 19 November 2023. She nicked meat, cleaning essentials, and laundry products from Morrisons, Lidl, and Asda.
At Asda in Mill Way, the 42-year-old even assaulted a staff member while trying to make her getaway without paying.
Swift Arrest and Guilty Plea
Lee, who has no fixed address, was tracked down and arrested on 29 November. Charged with five counts of theft, common assault, and a public order offence, she faced Medway Magistrates’ Court on 1 December.
She pleaded guilty to all charges and was immediately sentenced to 120 days behind bars.
Police Crackdown on Persistent Thieves
Inspector Vanessa Foster of Sittingbourne Community Safety Unit said: “We are determined to target criminals who persistently steal from our local shops and bring them before the courts at the earliest opportunity.
“In this case, a prolific thief was swiftly charged and had no choice but to plead guilty at their first hearing due to the overwhelming evidence against her.
“Any others intent on committing retail crime in Swale can expect a similar result.”
