Prolific Worthing Shoplifter Jailed After Admitting Series of Thefts

A prolific shop thief has been jailed after admitting a string of theft offences across Worthing and surrounding areas. Linton Woolley, 37, repeatedly entered shops and stole items without paying, despite being subject to a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) banning him from Co-op stores. At Lewes Crown Court on 21 January, Woolley pleaded guilty to […]

A prolific shop thief has been jailed after admitting a string of theft offences across Worthing and surrounding areas.

Linton Woolley, 37, repeatedly entered shops and stole items without paying, despite being subject to a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) banning him from Co-op stores.

At Lewes Crown Court on 21 January, Woolley pleaded guilty to ten new shop theft offences and five breaches of a Criminal Behaviour Order. The court heard that his latest crime spree involved stealing goods worth nearly £1,000.

Woolley targeted multiple retailers, including Sainsbury’s, Morrisons and the Co-op. His offences included thefts from Co-op stores in Field Place, Goring Road and Rowlands Road, as well as Sainsbury’s at Lyons Farm and Rustington Retail Park. He also stole from Morrisons stores in Hawthorn Road, Worthing, and in Littlehampton.

Woolley, who has no fixed address, had previously been made subject to a five-year Criminal Behaviour Order in 2024, which specifically banned him from entering Co-op stores. Despite this, he continued to offend.

He was sentenced to one year in prison for his latest offences.

Inspector Christopher Bryant said: “We understand the impact that shoplifting has for communities and for staff working in retail.

“That is why we are targeting the most prolific and repeat offenders to ensure they face justice.

“Woolley has continued to steal items from stores, and this series of offences was worth £980 in stock taken.

“So we are pleased that a prolific offender is now off the streets, serving a significant custodial sentence.”