Prolific shoplifter jailed after spree of thefts

Lauren Thomas repeatedly stole items from shops in Bridgwater between December and March

A prolific shoplifter has been jailed after pleading guilty to more than a dozen offences.

Lauren Thomas, 37, stole items from shops in Bridgwater, Somerset, on 14 occasions between 9 December and 4 March.

Thomas, of no fixed address, was sentenced to eight weeks in prison at Taunton Magistrates' Court on Monday and ordered to pay £200 compensation.

Avon and Somerset Police said a custodial sentence had been given because Thomas committed the thefts while serving a suspended sentence for similar offences.

Insp Sarah Knight said: "Lauren Thomas stole from shops more than a dozen times over a three-month period.

"Shoplifting is not a victimless crime and we will continue to work with retailers to bring thieves to justice."