Southampton woman sentenced for shoplifting from Hamble store

A 40-year-old woman from Southampton has been sentenced after stealing from a shop in Hamble.

Catherine Marie Vine, of no fixed abode, pleaded guilty to the shoplifting from Co-op, High Street.

On Friday 8 December 2023, Vine left the store without paying for £93.50 worth of alcohol, cereal, soft drinks and fish.

CCTV captured her committing the offence and local officers were subsequently able to identify her from the footage.

Vine was sentenced at Southampton Magistrates’ Court on Friday 8 March and ordered to pay compensation, equivalent to the value of the items she stole.

She must also comply with the requirements of a community order and is subject to a rehabilitation activity requirement, meaning she must attend appointments and participate in activities as required by the responsible officer.

Dedicated Neighbourhood Officer and Local Bobby, PC Simon Peacock, said: “This outcome again shows that we will not tolerate shoplifting from our local shops and businesses.

“If we receive a report of theft from a store, we will do all we can to bring that offender to justice.

“As well as imprisonment, other punishments, as in this case, can also be handed down to an offender in a bid to prevent them from reoffending, thus protecting people and their businesses in the long run.

“If you are a shop owner, and you experience any thefts from your store, please ensure you report these to us at the earliest opportunity.

“We can only look to take action against an offender if we are made aware of an incident.

“You can do this by calling 101, or by reporting online via the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary website.

“You can also call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.”