A career shoplifter has finally been locked up after a brazen crime spree across Worthing and nearby towns.
Shoplifting Kingpin Caught Red-Handed
Linton Woolley, 37, repeatedly strutted into shops and walked out with goods without paying — despite being slapped with a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) banning him from ALL Co-op stores.
Ten New Thefts and Five CBO Breaches
At Lewes Crown Court on 21 January, Woolley pleaded guilty to ten fresh shoplifting offences and five breaches of his Co-op ban.
His latest haul? Nearly £1,000 worth of stolen goods from big-name stores including:
- Co-op branches in Field Place, Goring Road, and Rowlands Road
- Sainsbury’s stores at Lyons Farm and Rustington Retail Park
- Morrisons in Hawthorn Road, Worthing, and Littlehampton
Homeless & Lawless: No Fixed Address, No Respect
Woolley, who has no fixed address, was slapped with a tough five-year CBO in 2024 banning him from Co-op stores — but he blatantly ignored it and kept stealing.
This time, he raked in £980 worth of stolen stock before finally being caught.
Police Praise Jail Time for Prolific Thief
“We understand the impact that shoplifting has for communities and staff working in retail,” said Inspector Christopher Bryant.
“That’s why we target the most prolific offenders to make sure justice is served.
“Woolley kept nicking items, with this latest spree worth nearly £1,000 in goods.
“We’re glad this repeat offender is now behind bars, serving a hefty sentence.”
Woolley was sentenced to one year in prison, sending a clear message to other serial shoplifters: the law is watching.
