Chandler’s Ford woman jailed for shoplifting offences

A 46-year-old woman from Chandler’s Ford will spend Christmas behind bars after being jailed for a series of shoplifting offences and breaching a community order.

Michelle Louise Grundy, of Falkland Road, Chandler’s Ford, was sentenced to 30 weeks in prison when she appeared at Southampton Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 19 December.

The court heard that Grundy committed two thefts from the Co-op store in Falkland Court, Chandler’s Ford. The offences involved the theft of meat and other items on Friday, 27 December, 2024, and Thursday, 16 January, 2025.

Grundy was also found to be in breach of a previously imposed community order.

Speaking after sentencing, Sergeant Dan Baines, of Eastleigh Neighbourhood Policing Team, said he welcomed the outcome.

“I’m pleased that Grundy has been placed behind bars, unable to commit further crimes,” he said. “I hope this outcome offers the business in question some comfort and reassurance, safe in the knowledge that this offender is no longer able to steal from them.

“Grundy had a complete disregard for the conditions of her community order, something which has been reflected in the sentence handed down. She is now facing up to the consequences of her actions and will have time, including over Christmas, to think about her crimes and the impact of these.”

Sergeant Baines added that the case demonstrated the police’s commitment to tackling retail crime.

“This case should once again demonstrate our commitment to seriously tackling and dealing with thieves. We won’t tolerate these crimes in our area and will continue working tirelessly, alongside our local businesses, to arrest, charge and bring offenders before the courts,” he said.

Police continue to encourage the public and businesses to report incidents by calling 101 or using the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary website. In an emergency or if a crime is in progress, members of the public should always call 999.