A regular thief in Swindon has been told he has 'one last chance' after pleading guilty to seven counts of theft from Co-op.

Richard Scott, of no fixed address, stole a total of £698.42 worth of items from Co-ops in Swindon between July 12 to September 8, 2024.

Items stolen included hundreds of pounds worth of meat, cheese and laundry products.

“He was already on a community order for previous thefts against Co-op when he carried out these offences, and he has a history of dishonesty," said prosecutor Mr Power.

“He targets Co-op because they have a policy that staff don’t approach thieves.”

But despite his extensive criminal record, defence lawyer Mr Mott explained how the 46-year-old was offending "less frequently than he used to."

“Mr Scott has been in and out of the courts for many years. I knew him when I used to be a lawyer here many years ago before I moved away from Swindon, and I am saddened to see him back in court again.

Richard Scott is a familiar face to Co-op and court staffRichard Scott is a familiar face to Co-op and court staff (Image: Wiltshire Police) "However, the root of his thievery is heroin, and Mr Scott is now clean of heroin and has been for many months.

“He says the September theft was to pay off the drug debt he had and not to purchase drugs.

“The thefts have also decreased in frequency over time. He no longer has drug debts and is no longer taking heroin.”

Ms Jameson, from the probation service, added: “He had been working with the probation service and engaging well.”

The regular thief has now been given a suspended sentence of 18 weeks suspended for 12 months, meaning he will not go to prison unless he commits another offence within a year.

Due to his financial situation, he also faces no court costs, compensation or surcharge.

"You have also been banned from entering Co-ops in Highdown Way, Swinley Drive and Lowry Way," said Judge Apted.

"Despite your previous record, I do think you show a good chance of rehabilitation. That ball's in your court now."

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