Shoplifter jailed after stealing more than £6,000 of cigarettes from two Northampton shops

Jonas Misevicius, of no fixed address, was sentenced at Northampton Crown Court on May 29, after previously pleading guilty to four shoplifting offences.

The 31-year-old targeted the One Stop Shop in Main Road, Duston, on January 31 at about 7.50am. Police say he started booting the door to the secure area behind the till. When challenged, he became aggressive and assaulted a female store assistance, before stealing £1,533 of cigarettes.

He then targeted the One Stop Store in Kent Road, St Crispins, on February 4, 13 and 22. On each occasion, he jumped over the counter to gain access to the secure area behind the tills and stole a combined total of £4,656.42 of cigarettes.

West LPA Response officer, PC Callum East, said: “Jonas Misevicius’ actions in repeatedly targeting the same shops caused distress to staff, who should have the right to work in a safe environment without fear of being assaulted.

“I am pleased that the courts have recognised the seriousness of Misevicius’ offending with a custodial sentence, and I hope this will also provide him with the chance to get the support he clearly needs.

“This sentence sends a clear message that we take retail crime very seriously and will continue to work with our business partners to make our communities safer places to live, work or visit.”

Misevicius was sentenced to three years and three months imprisonment and ordered to pay £228 victim surcharge.

He was also issued with a five-year criminal behaviour order which excludes him from every branch of One Stop in Northamptonshire.