A MAN who was handed a suspended sentence for shoplifting has been jailed after being caught stealing again a week later.

Paul Restall, who is 49 and from of Harrison Gardens in Illogan, was given an eight-week suspended sentence on Monday, February 16 this year following a spate of four shopliftings and a breach of his criminal behaviour order.

Suspended prison sentences are served in the community instead of in prison. If a convicted offender breaks the conditions of their suspended sentence, they can be sent to prison.

Mr Restall will now spend 18 weeks in prison after stealing from Co-op in St Ives and Tesco in Penzance just ten days after his initial conviction.

Restall appeared at Truro Magistrates Court on Tuesday (April 14) where he admitted to the two thefts which took place on February 26 and 28.

PS John Scrimgeour, who heads up the local team in Penzance said: “Suspended sentences provide convicted offenders with an opportunity to step away from their pattern of criminal behaviour.

“In this case, Restall continued to steal from shops seemingly without any care around the impact that his shoplifting was having on local shops or their employees.

“We take business crime seriously and will continue to work with retailers to target prolific offenders to disrupt, deter and prevent theft from taking place.”

Crime can be reported online, by calling the 101 non-emergency service line or via the Devon & Cornwall Police website. Alternatively, contact the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 to remain anonymous.