A prolific shoplifter has been jailed for 67 weeks after stealing more than £1,500 worth of goods from retailers across Bristol during a three-week crime spree.
Michael Kyriacou, 33, of no fixed address, admitted 12 offences after targeting multiple stores in early July, stealing more than £1,000 worth of food and more than £500 worth of handbags.
Kyriacou pleaded guilty at Bristol Magistrates' Court on 24 July to nine counts of shop theft, two counts of trespass with intent to commit a criminal offence and one count of common assault on an emergency worker. He was sentenced to 67 weeks' imprisonment.
The stolen food items included meat, cheese and chocolate, while handbags were taken from a TK Maxx store.
Police said Kyriacou repeatedly targeted retailers despite being banned from stores and threatened an officer with a syringe during his arrest.
Sergeant Joe Iles said the case highlighted the impact prolific retail offenders have on businesses, shop workers and local communities.
“Kyriacou's offending demonstrates the significant harm that prolific retail criminals cause to businesses, shop workers and the wider community,” Iles said.
“Over a period of just three weeks he targeted multiple stores across Bristol, repeatedly stealing high-value goods, ignoring bans imposed by retailers and showing a complete disregard for the impact of his actions.
“Particularly concerning was his behaviour towards police officers when challenged, threatening an officer with a syringe during his arrest.
“No-one should face intimidation, violence or threats simply for carrying out their job.
“Retail crime is not victimless. The cumulative effect of repeated thefts places considerable financial pressure on businesses and causes distress to staff who are often subjected to abusive and confrontational behaviour.”
Iles said Avon and Somerset Police would continue working with retailers and partner agencies to identify prolific offenders and bring them before the courts.
“We will continue to work closely with retailers and partner agencies to identify prolific offenders, bring them before the courts and pursue robust action to protect businesses and communities across Bristol,” he added.