TWO prolific shoplifters in Newquay have been jailed following a police operation.

Martin Ward, aged 52, of no fixed abode, Newquay, was convicted of a breach of his criminal behaviour order which was obtained as a result of carrying out numerous thefts in the Newquay area. His previous suspended sentence was activated, and he received an 18-week prison sentence at Truro Crown Court on January 7.

Nicola Connolly, aged 42 previously of Newquay, was convicted of 13 theft offences and had a further three taken into consideration.

She was sentenced to 18 months in prison at Truro Crown Court on January 8. She was also issued a two-year criminal behaviour order for when she is released.

Newquay and St Columb Inspector Steve Johnson said: “Newquay Police with the help of the Neighbourhoods Support Team and local retailers were able to secure convictions for these two local prolific offenders for retail thefts.

“Both have been subjects on the local Shopwatch scheme and have caused a significant amount of loss to the businesses, and created a lot of work for the police.

“Many of the Officers at Newquay live and work here. We know local people and understand their problems, which is why we take this type of crime seriously. For many small business owners being subjected to thefts such as this could mean the difference between taking a wage and not.

“So, whilst we will always endeavour to get support for vulnerable people who feel they have no option but to commit crime, we also know business owners need protection from these individuals. These results last week should go some way to offer this.”

Anyone who is being subjected to business crime should report to police and visit the business crime page on the Devon and Cornwall Police website.