CCTV shows shoplifter smashing his way out of shop

CCTV footage of a shoplifter smashing his way through a shop door has been released by police.

Jeremiah Connors, of Bishopworth in Bristol, was jailed for 12 months at Bristol Crown Court on Tuesday.

He admitted five counts of shoplifting, which took place in August and September, when he appeared at Bristol Magistrates' Court on 20 September.

Sgt Darrell Boothroyd from Avon and Somerset Police said the 30-year-old was a "prolific offender whose crimes have had a significant financial impact on businesses".

Connors also admitted one count of criminal damage and one count of possession of a class A drug (crack cocaine).

Avon and Somerset Police said the incident in the CCTV happened at Morrisons in Peterson Avenue, Hartcliffe, on 18 September.

Police were told a member of the shop's staff who suspected Connors of shoplifting had locked him in the building, before Connors then forced his way out.

Jeremiah Connors has also been handed a Criminal Behaviour Order

In addition to the 12-month prison sentence, Connors was also handed a three-year Criminal Behaviour Order which bans him from entering several shops across the city.

Sgt Boothroyd said shoplifting negatively affected communities and urged anyone who witnessed it to make a report to police.