A prolific shoplifter who repeatedly targeted supermarkets and convenience stores across Swansea has been jailed after one theft spree saw hundreds of pounds' worth of goods stolen. Richard Wolsey, 47, of no fixed abode, admitted six counts of shop theft when he appeared before Swansea Magistrates' Court on May 11.
The court heard Wolsey carried out a string of thefts in Cadle, Portmead, Fforestfach, Penlan and Swansea city centre, with one incident involving goods worth as much as £657. In one brazen raid, Wolsey stole an entire display from a shop before fleeing the scene with the haul.
He was sentenced to eight months in prison.
PC Christian Thomas said Wolsey had become a "persistent offender" who showed "no signs of attempting to change his ways".
He added: "Shop workers should not have to deal with petty thieves targeting their businesses.
"But Richard Wolsey cares not a jot for those whose lives he makes harder with his shoplifting.
"We will relentlessly pursue anyone involved in shoplifting, especially those persistent offenders like Richard Wolsey, and they will be sent to prison."
Police said the offences caused repeated disruption for local businesses already dealing with rising levels of retail crime.
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