Four notorious shoplifters have been sentenced to prison after terrorising stores across West Sussex for several months. The successful operation, named Operation Apprentice, led by Sussex Police, has put an end to the criminal activities of these repeat offenders.
Operation Apprentice is a collaborative effort involving police officers, retailers, Business Crime Reduction Partnerships, and local councils. The initiative aims to target and dismantle the worst retail criminals operating in the region. The latest crackdown resulted in the arrest and conviction of four career thieves who had been causing significant disruption to shops throughout West Sussex.
Ryan Breach, 36, who is homeless, admitted to 13 shop thefts and eight breaches of criminal behaviour orders. His stolen items included £205 worth of medicine from Savers, protein powder from Holland & Barrett, and £360 worth of Lego from Morrisons. He was sentenced to 16 months in prison at Lewes Crown Court.
Alex Nash, 33, from Bognor Regis, confessed to 22 thefts, 12 breaches of behaviour orders, and possession of drugs. Nash targeted Tesco Express on Aldwick Road 15 times over two months, including stealing four times in a single day. He also committed thefts at Co-op stores on Chichester Road. Nash received a 10-month jail sentence and was ordered to pay compensation.
Joshua Frasier, 31, also homeless, pleaded guilty to 21 thefts in Crawley between October and January. His stolen goods included clothing from TK Maxx and various items from Sainsbury’s, Tesco, and Co-op stores. He was sentenced to two years in prison at Lewes Crown Court.
Max Huggett, 34, from Northgate, admitted to 17 thefts and an equal number of breaches of criminal behaviour orders during the same period. He repeatedly targeted the Co-op in Langley Green and Tesco in Hyde Drive. Huggett was sentenced to three months in jail.
Chief Inspector James Davidson issued a stern warning to shoplifters, stating, “Shop theft impacts retail staff and our entire community. We’re working closely with businesses to stop retail crime and bring repeat offenders to justice.” He encouraged the public to report any suspicious activity by calling 101 or using online reporting tools, and to dial 999 in emergencies.
This decisive crackdown sends a clear message that West Sussex will not tolerate shoplifting sprees that harm local businesses. Repeat offenders should be aware that law enforcement is vigilant and ready to take action.
Originally published by UKNIP.
