A prolific shoplifter has been jailed for almost a year after repeatedly targeting stores across Swindon and breaching the terms of his Criminal Behaviour Order.
Michael McDonagh, 47, of Spring Close, Swindon, pleaded guilty to four counts of theft along with two counts of breaching his CBO.
He was sentenced to a total of 47 weeks in prison, made up of 15 weeks for an activated suspended sentence and a further 16 weeks for each breach of the order.
The theft offences involved three incidents at Co-op stores across Swindon and one at a Tesco Express. McDonagh was already subject to a Criminal Behaviour Order which banned him from entering any Co-op store in the town due to his repeated offending.
Swindon Central South Inspector David Tippetts said McDonagh had continued to show little regard for the impact of his actions.
“McDonagh repeatedly targeted shops across Swindon, causing loss and disruption for businesses,” he said. “He has shown a complete disregard for the consequences of his offending and now faces another spell behind bars.
“This sentence highlights the effectiveness of the Criminal Behaviour Order, which has resulted in a longer custodial sentence than he would otherwise have received.”
Inspector Tippetts added that tackling shoplifting remains a key priority for neighbourhood policing teams.
“We recognise the impact shoplifting has on local businesses and the wider community, and we remain committed to bringing those responsible before the courts.”
