Shoplifter Jailed and Banned After Brazen Food Theft Spree
A notorious shop thief who targeted local food stores has been locked up and hit with a tough ban from multiple shops. Kelly Freestone’s relentless offending finally caught up with her thanks to vigilant neighbourhood police.
Stealing Cheese and Meat Without a Care
Despite multiple warnings and second chances, the 40-year-old Freestone didn’t stop. Released from prison just weeks earlier on 25 March 2024, she struck again at a Co-op in Wilmot Lane, Beeston, on 5 April. CCTV caught her loading up on packs of cheese before walking out without paying.
The very next day, she returned and made off with around £150 worth of meat – again with no intention to pay. Her brazen behaviour clearly showed she had no plans to change.
Neighbourhood Police Crack the Case
Beeston’s neighbourhood policing team launched inquiries and swiftly arrested Freestone. She was charged with two counts of shop theft and pleaded guilty at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court on 12 April 2024.
The court handed her a six-month jail sentence and slapped on a three-year criminal behaviour order banning her from several local shops, including Co-op stores in Beeston and Chilwell, B&M Bargains, Home Bargains, and Savers.
Police Praise Team Effort, Warn of Tough Consequences
“Freestone is a prolific shoplifter who ignored all warnings and licence conditions,” said PC Dean Bardill of the Beeston neighbourhood team. “Her persistent offending has hit local businesses hard, so I’m pleased we’ve managed to give them some relief by locking her up and banning her from stores for three years.”
“If she breaks this order, she’ll be back in court and could face more jail time.”
Inspector Mike Ebbins, District Commander for Broxtowe, added: “This result is thanks to brilliant work by the neighbourhood team. Tackling shop theft is a top local policing priority. We want to reassure businesses and the public we’re serious about protecting them and bringing offenders like Freestone to justice.”
