Prolific Sevenoaks shoplifter jailed less than a week after his arrest

A prolific Sevenoaks shoplifter is starting a prison sentence just four days after his arrest in London.

Between 29 August and 29 December 2022, James Purnell entered Waitrose in the High Street on three separate occasions, where he stole alcohol, electronic toothbrushes and food products valued at more than £1,500.

He also went to the supermarket two further times, during the same period, but left empty-handed when he was challenged by a member of staff.

Banned

On 12 November 2020, Purnell had been issued with a Criminal Behaviour Order by Croydon Magistrates’ Court.

The order was to last five years and prohibited him from entering any Waitrose or Little Waitrose store in the areas of Greater London, Surrey, Sussex or Kent.

On Thursday 5 January 2023, he was arrested in London. Purnell, of Oakfield Road, Penge was later charged with three thefts and five counts of breaching a Criminal Behaviour Order.

Jailed

The 39-year-old was remanded in custody and appeared before Medway Magistrates’ Court on Monday 9 January. He pleaded guilty to the indictments and received one year's imprisonment.

Investigating officer, PC Dan Lovelock, said: ‘Purnell is a prolific offender who completely disregarded the Criminal Behaviour Order restrictions imposed on him by the court.
‘His crimes can have a significant effect on local businesses and it is entirely appropriate that his disgraceful conduct has resulted in a prison sentence.’