Louisianna Santillo, 44, of Combe Down, has been sentenced to two months in prison after admitting to stealing from the same Bath Co-operative store 17 times within just 15 days. The offences occurred at The Co-operative on Mount Road between June 17 and July 1.
At Bath Magistrates’ Court on July 2, magistrates emphasized the severity of the repeated thefts, describing Santillo’s actions as displaying a “flagrant disregard for people and their property” and noting her role as “a professional criminal.” Given the seriousness and frequency of the offences, a custodial sentence was deemed necessary.
In addition to the prison sentence, Santillo was issued a two-year Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO). This order restricts her from entering shops in several areas including Fox Hill, Odd Down, and Combe once she is released, aiming to prevent further incidents.
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Sergeant Tom Allwood-Coppin from the Bath neighbourhood policing team highlighted the wider impact of such crimes: “Retail crime is not a victimless crime. Shoplifting significantly affects businesses, especially smaller ones. We are committed to pursuing prolific offenders and securing convictions.”
He added, “The combination of sentencing and the successful CBO plays a crucial role in protecting retail staff and premises from further harm caused by Santillo.”
The police urge the public to call 999 in emergencies or use 101 for non-urgent matters. Reports can also be made online via the Avon and Somerset Police website.