Man imprisoned for theft related offences in Watford

A man has been jailed for two weeks following two theft offences.

On Thursday 9 May, officers were called to a report of shoplifting at Sainsbury’s in Albert Road South. It was reported that a man made no attempts to pay for a men’s watch and two bottles of alcohol before trying to leave the store.

Security staff at the shop had detained the suspect until officers arrived at the scene. He was subsequently arrested and charged with theft.

James Anderson, aged 37, of no fixed abode, appeared before Hatfield Magistrates’ Court where he was ordered to pay a fine and was sentenced to two weeks imprisonment suspended for 12 months.

On Saturday 11 May, during proactive patrols, officers spotted Anderson attempting to steal a bike in the High Street. Officers arrested him on suspicion of attempted theft of a pedal cycle. This arrest triggered Anderson’s suspended sentence where he was subsequently sent to prison for two weeks. The victim had their bike safely handed back to them.

Inspector Dan Jones from the Watford Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “We understand the impact theft has on individuals and on businesses. Our officers take all reports seriously and are committed to ensuring we take robust action against this type of crime.”

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