Nicky Barratt from Swansea is facing a not-so-merry Christmas in prison after his festive shoplifting spree. The 36-year-old was caught red-handed nicking over £850 worth of goodies, including 60 blocks of cheese and loads of chocolates. His five-month sentence means he’ll be spending the holiday season behind bars.
The Swansea Magistrates Court heard how Barratt’s shopping list didn’t just stop at cheese and chocs. His escapades over the weeks included bottles of wine, cans of pre-mixed cocktails, biscuits, ribs, and soft drinks. Barratt’s getaway tour came to an end when he was nabbed with chocs worth more than £330 at a Tesco Express. His arrest linked him to more thefts at Co-ops and other Tesco Express branches in the area.
South Wales Police reckon his enforced holiday “time out” might lead to some soul-searching. They’ve been cracking down on shoplifters, especially during the busy holiday shopping season. Sergeant Jon Shaddick noted the focus on those who target businesses for personal gain.
Barratt pleaded guilty to five counts of theft and received a sentence shave for his guilty plea – he’ll serve 40% of his time behind bars before moving to a community license. Shoplifting continues to be a persistent issue for retailers, particularly during the festive rush when stores are bustling, and the market for stolen goods is buzzing.
Here’s hoping Barratt’s time in the clink brings him some much-needed reflection this holiday season! 🎄🚨