A prolific shoplifter who targeted supermarkets in Trowbridge has been sentenced to jail after stealing sweets, alcohol, and even an electric toothbrush. John Vann, 37, with no fixed address, admitted to 11 counts of theft committed since late December.
Most incidents took place at the Tesco Express on Eastbourne Road, with additional thefts at Sainsbury’s on British Row and Tesco Extra on County Way. On New Year’s Day, Vann was caught hiding several bottles of alcohol in his jacket at Sainsbury’s. Just days later, on January 6, he carried out three separate thefts within hours, stealing hundreds of pounds worth of confectionery and alcohol.
His spree ended on January 22, when CCTV footage at Tesco Extra captured him concealing items, including an electric toothbrush and alcohol, inside his coat. Following his arrest, Vann pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 21 weeks in jail by Salisbury Magistrates’ Court on January 23. Additionally, he was ordered to pay a £154 victim surcharge.
READ MORE: Hundreds Come Forward Reporting Sexual Abuse During Military Medical Exams
READ MORE: Controversial ‘Too Tall’ Plan for 270 Co-Living Flats Proposed in Bath
PC Josh Hammond praised the vigilance of store security staff that led to Vann’s capture and stressed that retail crime is taken seriously by Wiltshire Police. He highlighted Vann’s blatant disregard for others’ property and confirmed that authorities will continue to take firm action against repeat offenders.