A habitual shoplifter from Worthing has been sentenced to eight months in prison after admitting to a series of retail thefts committed just weeks after receiving a suspended sentence. Dylan Hampson, 28, of no fixed address, was found to have breached a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) by targeting Sainsbury’s stores in Goring Road and Littlehampton Road between September 7 and 18, 2025.
The CBO, imposed on September 1, had prohibited Hampson from entering all Co-op and Sainsbury’s stores in Sussex, as well as any store where he had been banned in writing. Despite these restrictions, CCTV footage captured him entering a store and stealing 16 packs of meat. At Crawley Magistrates’ Court on September 26, Hampson pleaded guilty to eight new shoplifting offences and five breaches of the CBO.
The court heard that Hampson has 23 previous convictions for 65 offences, the majority of which were theft-related. His persistent criminal behaviour has caused significant concern among retailers and the public. In response, Sussex Police have reiterated their commitment to tackling repeat offenders and protecting businesses from the impact of shoplifting. Inspector Andrew Bryant emphasized the importance of early reporting and collaboration with retailers to prevent and address such crimes.
This case highlights the ongoing efforts by Sussex Police to combat shoplifting and hold prolific offenders accountable. Through operations like Operation Apprentice, the force continues to focus on repeat offenders, ensuring that those who repeatedly target businesses face appropriate legal consequences.
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