Prolific Shoplifter Convicted After Crime Spree in Worthing and Lancing

A prolific shoplifter has been convicted in court following a series of thefts across Worthing and Lancing, despite being subject to a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO).

Amy Jones, 32, of Byron Road, Worthing, was arrested and charged with ten counts of theft and ten breaches of her CBO between January 5 and February 14. She appeared at Crawley Magistrates’ Court on February 17, where she pleaded guilty to all charges and was remanded in custody for sentencing at Lewes Crown Court on March 17.

Jones had been issued a CBO on December 15, 2023, in an attempt to curb her repeat offending, but she continued to target retailers, stealing items such as meat, sweets, and alcohol. The stores affected included multiple Co-Op branches in Worthing and Lancing, as well as Asda and B&M. Sussex Police confirmed that her persistent breaches led to her latest prosecution.

Detective Sergeant Colin O’Hare of the Worthing Response Investigation Team highlighted the impact of business crime on local retailers and urged store owners to continue reporting incidents. “This case demonstrates the successful outcomes that can be achieved through early reporting,” he said. “Our battle against business crime is ongoing, and we encourage all retailers to remain vigilant.”