Shoplifter found hiding in bedroom is sentenced

A serial shoplifter who tried to evade arrest by hiding in a bedroom from police has been sentenced.

Darren Anderson, 37, was wanted in connection with what police said was a "prolific" shoplifting spree in the village of Armthorpe, near Doncaster, and was arrested on 9 February after officers discoverd his whereabouts.

Anderson later pleaded guilty to 15 counts of theft from shops in Armthorpe, along with the theft of a pedal cycle.

At Doncaster Magistrates' Court last week, he was given a suspended sentence and a three-year Criminal Behaviour Order banning him from three stores in the village.

Anderson was also ordered to undergo a rehabilitation programme and drug rehabilitation and to pay £100 in compensation.

He was specifically banned from entering the Co-op on Hatfield Lane in Armthorpe, as well as the Intake 10 filling station and B&M on Church Street.

Speaking after the court hearing, PC Vicky Green said: "Anderson's behaviour was reckless and careless as he showed himself to be a serial shoplifter with no regard for local businesses and their hard-working employees.

"We seek to obtain Criminal Behaviour Orders for those who engage in persistent crimes such as anti-social behaviour, and should Anderson breach the terms of this order he will be prosecuted."

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