A Camborne man who went on a four-month crime spree has been sentenced to 38 months in prison after pleading guilty to 17 offences.

Neal Grenfell, 32, of no fixed abode, pleaded guilty to eight counts of theft, five counts of assault by beating, burglary, possession of a bladed article, possession of cocaine and racially aggravated disorderly behaviour.

Grenfell was handed jail time following his appearance at Truro Crown Court on August 27, as well as being made the subject of a six-years Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO).

Inspector Lou Brown, who heads up local policing in the area, said: “I am pleased with the outcome at court. Grenfell was a prolific offender who had no regard for his actions and the impact his behaviour would have on the people he harmed or the shops he stole from.

“The addition of the CBO will also help to deter future offending upon his release.”

The court heard of Grenfell’s prolific offending which took place across a four-month period this year.

In an unprovoked incident earlier in March, Grenfell viciously assaulted a man outside a homeless shelter, punching and kicking him in the head and body. He then went on to attack a woman who came to the victim’s aid.

On his arrest, Grenfell began to act aggressively towards a police officer, using racial and discriminatory language.

In May and June, Grenfell stole £681.94 worth of goods from Iceland, Home Bargains, Co-op and Morrisons, including an air fryer, energy drinks and chilled meat products.

During the thefts, he assaulted three shop workers and was found with 8g of cocaine.

In June, officers found a knife on Grenfell’s person after being called to a domestic incident.

Insp Brown added: "This outcome was achieved through the hard work of the neighbourhood support team, Cornwall Councils ASB officer, the neighbourhood police team, patrol officers and the domestic abuse team. Thank you to all those involved.

“I also want this to send a clear message to offenders that persistent offending will not be tolerated – you will be arrested and put before the courts.

“And as a message to the wider public, I hope this demonstrates our commitment to keeping you safe. We will continue to act on your reports and target those who cause you harm.”

Grenfell's CBO prohibits him from remaining in or on any retail premises if asked to leave by a member of staff, uniformed accredited officer, PSCO or Police Officer or person responsible for the premises in the County of Cornwall. Entering any retail premises from which you know you have been banned in the County of Cornwall