Shoplifter Caught After Violent Assault on Cop
Jordan Best, 38, a notorious shoplifter in Thanet and Canterbury, has been jailed for over two years following a violent confrontation with police during his arrest. Best’s crime spree between March and April 2024 saw him targeting supermarkets across Ramsgate, Whitstable, Canterbury, Herne Bay, and Margate.
Rampage Ends in Ramsgate
The final straw came on April 10 in Ramsgate’s Newington area when Kent Police responded to reports of Best stealing twice from the same shop. A quick-thinking member of the public identified him on the spot. When officers arrived, Best tried to make a run for it, swinging a bag stuffed with stolen goods and striking an officer.
Despite his violent resistance, Best was caught and arrested on suspicion of theft and assaulting an emergency worker.
Spree of Thefts and Violence
- Kent Police investigations revealed Best was behind a string of robberies, often filling a holdall with meat, laundry products, and other goods without paying.
- On April 3, he pushed a security guard after being confronted for stealing meat at a Ramsgate store.
- During his final arrest on April 22, Best lashed out viciously—punching, biting, and attempting to gouge an officer’s eyes.
Justice Served at Canterbury Crown Court
At Canterbury Crown Court on September 24, Best, who has no fixed address, admitted to 12 thefts, assaulting an emergency worker, causing actual bodily harm, and assaulting a shop employee. The judge sentenced him to two years and four months in prison, including 120 days added from a previously suspended sentence.
Inspector Shelah Thompson slammed Best’s reckless behaviour: “The idea you can waltz into shops, sack a bag with stolen goods, then assault anyone who challenges you is foolish. Kent Police work closely with businesses to ensure security like CCTV, which helps nab criminals.”
Inspector Thompson praised local officers and victims, saying, “Jordan Best was well known to neighbourhood officers. Their careful CCTV work led to his arrest. Thanks to the businesses and victims who stood strong—your support was vital in stopping this thug.”
Best is now behind bars, his crime frenzy finally halted.
