A PROLIFIC shoplifter who targeted big-brand stores has been jailed.

Tom Sweet, 45, of no fixed abode, was sentenced to 26 weeks in jail during a hearing at Kidderminster Magistrates Court after being found guilty of 22 counts of shop theft in Droitwich.

Co-op, B&M and Boots were all targeted by Sweet in September and October, leading to his arrest by officers from Droitwich's Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT).

Cathy Atkinson, police sergeant at Droitwich SNT, said: "We are pleased to get this court result for Sweet who has been a prolific shoplifter at stores in the town.

"We take acquisitive crime seriously and work hard with our retail partners to ensure thieves are brought to justice."

Sweet's hearing took place on October 25.