Liverpool woman jailed in pickpocketing crackdown

Luminita Mihai, 24, admitted stealing a mobile phone from a student in September

A woman has been jailed after being arrested during a crackdown on pickpockets.

Luminita Mihai, 24, of Langton Road in Liverpool, was spotted "paying close attention to people's belongings" in Liverpool city centre on Sunday, police said.

Mihai then admitted stealing a mobile phone from a student in September.

She was jailed for six months at Liverpool Magistrates Court on Monday.

Mihai's arrest came as extra patrols were on the streets during the Lunar New Year celebrations.

The patrols were also part of Operation Ghost, which targets street thefts.

Sgt Craig Winstanley said: "I hope the sentencing of Mihai today sends a clear message to anyone who comes into Liverpool city centre intent on stealing from innocent people.

"Let me be clear, this will not be tolerated."