A prolific shoplifter in Worthing, Adam Gibbs, 35, has been jailed after breaching a court order 15 times by committing new thefts worth more than £1,800. Despite already serving a suspended sentence for repeated offences, Gibbs continued stealing from local stores between December and January. The Worthing Response Investigation Team identified Gibbs as a serial offender during Operation Apprentice, leading to his arrest and prosecution at Lewes Crown Court on 5 May.
Serial Theft Spree
Gibbs admitted to 22 fresh shoplifting offences, targeting a wide range of goods from popular stores including Co-op, Sainsbury’s, Marks and Spencer, and Boots. Items taken ranged from ribeye steaks, vodka, and whiskey to everyday essentials like shampoo, butter, electric toothbrushes, and candles.
Ignored Court Orders
Already under a suspended prison sentence imposed in December for earlier thefts, Gibbs blatantly disregarded a Criminal Behaviour Order. His continuous offending prompted the court to impose a new order barring him from entering numerous retail outlets across West Sussex, including major supermarkets and the Guildbourne Centre in Worthing.
Operation Apprentice Crackdown
Police‘s Worthing Response Investigation Team played a key role in bringing Gibbs to justice. Operating under Operation Apprentice, officers worked closely with local businesses to monitor and report retail crime swiftly, enabling strong evidence gathering.
Justice Delivered
Chief Inspector James Davidson said: “Gibbs has been a serial shoplifter who has repeatedly ignored court orders. Retail crime is a priority for us, and we understand the concern it causes in our communities and for staff. In this case, I am pleased that a prolific offender is now serving a custodial sentence.”
Gibbs received a 12-month prison sentence and a renewed Criminal Behaviour Order to prevent further offences, sending a clear message to other persistent shoplifters in West Sussex.
