A serial shoplifter from Erith has been sentenced to three and a half years in prison for stealing goods worth over £14,100 in almost 100 separate offences. Martin Jackson, 40, was found guilty of 98 offences, including theft and violating a restraining order. He has also been banned from entering a Boots store and a BP service station on Trafalgar Road, Greenwich for five years.
Despite being under a previous Criminal Behaviour Order preventing him from entering these shops, Jackson managed to steal thousands of pounds worth of goods. CCTV footage reviewed by police officers after his arrest in July clearly showed him stealing items like food, alcohol, and toiletries in broad daylight. Faced with this strong evidence, Jackson pleaded guilty to all charges on September 2.
Acting Superintendent Rav Pathania, who oversees neighbourhood policing in Greenwich, expressed relief at getting Jackson off the streets and behind bars. He emphasized the importance of focusing on the concerns of the community, including local businesses. Pathania highlighted the efforts made to build stronger relationships with businesses and address their concerns, showing that the police are listening and taking action on local issues.
Iona Blake, Europe mobility & convenience security manager at bp, emphasized the priority of safety at their stores. She mentioned that ensuring the safety of their colleagues and customers is of utmost importance and that they want everyone to have a great experience when visiting their establishments.
The cooperation of bp and Boots in the investigation was crucial in achieving justice for Jackson’s crimes. This case serves as a reminder of the importance of community engagement and collaboration in tackling criminal activities that affect local businesses. It also highlights the dedication of law enforcement in addressing the concerns of the community and working towards a safer environment for all.
