Watch police chase and catch shoplifter in Cambridge city centre

A Cambridge thief is back behind bars after committing a spate of theft.

Samuel Green, of no fixed abode, stole alcohol, coffee, washing powder and a jacket from shops including John Lewis, Cotswold Outdoor, Sainsbury’s and Co-Ops on six occasions between 27 January and 28 February.

The 29-year-old also broke in behind the counter of Co-Op in Hills Road on 16 February to steal alcohol.

Green was arrested following a chase in the city centre involving the spree offender team on 3 March and a knife was found in his rucksack.

At CambridgeMagistrates’ Court on Tuesday (4 March), Green pleaded guilty to six counts of shop theft, possession of a knife and burglary. He was sentenced to 12 weeks in prison and must pay £200 compensation to John Lewis.

Sgt Dan Scott, from the spree offending team, said: “Shoplifting isn’t just about stealing stock, it’s stealing from hard-working employees, customers and businesses. We know shoplifting can drive up prices, threaten jobs and force businesses to close their doors so it will remain a priority for us to put people like Green before the courts.”