PROLIFIC Chard shoplifter Ashley Raybould admitted more than a dozen thefts in the town in just six weeks.

Raybould appeared at Taunton Magistrates’ Court on August 14, where he admitted 15 shoplifting offences between July 3 and August 13.

It followed a police investigation into alcohol and food being stolen from Sainsbury’s in Holyrood Street.

The 34-year-old also admitted one count of possession of a bladed article in a public place after being found to have a lock bladed knife on him in Chard when he was arrested.

Raybould, of Norton-sub-Hamdon, was released on conditional bail by magistrates and will be sentenced on Tuesday, October 8.

Sergeant Karen Pattison, of the Chard Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “Shoplifting is not a victim-less crime. It can have a massive impact on businesses, especially small ones.

“We are committed to bringing those responsible for it to justice and are pleased the enquiries undertaken by the local team have secured 15 convictions.”

Anyone who suspects shoplifting has occurred should report it via the Avon & Somerset Police website or, if a crime is in progress and there is immediate danger or a suspect has been detained, call 999.

Raybould repeatedly targeted Sainsbury’s in Chard. Picture: Google