Chelmsford: Woman jailed for 12 months for shoplifting

A woman, who stole wine from two supermarkets and damaged a police cell has been jailed for 12 months.

Claire Wood, 49 of Searle Place, Great Leighs appeared at Southend Magistrates Court on Monday, 19 February where she was sentenced to 12 months in prison.

An investigation was launched on 13 February, when officers were called to the Co-op in Duke Street in Chelmsford following reports of Wood stealing a bottle of red wine. Witnesses described Wood as walking past security and giving them a thumbs up whilst walking out of the store with a bottle of wine.

On the 15 February, we received a further report of a woman, matching Wood’s description stealing two bottles of wine from Marks and Spender in Chelmsford. Wood was arrested later that day on suspicion of two counts of theft from a shop.

Whilst on the way to custody, Wood made comments to officer implying that she was guilty. Whilst in custody, Wood threw the food given to her across the cell, causing damage to the cameras and walls. She was further arrested on suspicion of criminal damage.

She was quickly charged with two counts of theft from a shop and criminal damage to property valued under £5000.

After pleading guilty, she appeared at Southend Magistrates Court on Monday, 19 February, she was sentenced to 12 months in prison.

Sergeant Graham Thomas said “Claire Wood appeared to show no remorse for her actions and was seen to be smiling whilst walking out of these stores without paying.

“I hope that this sentence proves to the public that we will act quickly and investigate thoroughly when it comes to reports of shoplifting. Chelmsford has a great city centre, which is enjoyed by many people and we will continue to make it a safe place for the public to work and shop.”