Efforts to combat shoplifting in Maidstone have yielded significant results with the remand of two suspects charged with multiple theft offences.

Kent Police responded to a report of theft from the Co-op store on Ashford Road, Harrietsham, on Sunday, 11th February 2024. A woman allegedly entered the store twice between 3:20pm and 3:40pm, pilfering £300 worth of confectionery. Sharna Steady, 33, of Mangravet Avenue, Maidstone, was swiftly apprehended by officers and charged with two counts of shoplifting. Steady pleaded guilty at Medway Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 12th February, and has been remanded in custody pending sentencing at Maidstone Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 27th February.

Meanwhile, in Maidstone, investigations into a series of thefts occurring between 2nd November 2023 and 15th January 2024 led to the identification of a suspect. Luke Ransome, 45, of Captain’s Close, Sutton Valence, was arrested by patrols on Saturday, 10th February, in connection with multiple thefts totalling nearly £1,000. Ransome appeared before Medway Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 12th February, where he pleaded guilty to seven counts of shoplifting. He has been remanded in custody and is scheduled for sentencing at the same court on Wednesday, 21st February.

Chief Inspector Mark McLellan of Local Policing emphasized the success of focused efforts by local policing teams in bringing repeat shoplifting offenders to justice. He highlighted the detrimental impact of shoplifting not only on affected businesses but also on the wider community, which bears the burden of increased costs for everyday items. Chief Inspector McLellan urged the public to report theft incidents promptly to enable law enforcement to continue its crackdown on crime in Maidstone’s high streets.

The swift actions of Kent Police underscore their commitment to maintaining the safety and security of Maidstone’s residents and businesses, signalling a strong stance against criminal activity in the area.