Man jailed for Totton non-dwelling burglary and series of theft offences

A 34-year-old man has been jailed after admitting a non-dwelling burglary at AFC Totton along with vehicle theft and multiple shoplifting offences.

Steven Frederick Michael Scaum, of no fixed abode, was sentenced to 30 weeks’ imprisonment when he appeared at Southampton Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday 16 December.

Scaum pleaded guilty to forcing entry into an outbuilding at AFC Totton on Salisbury Road during the early hours of Thursday 20 November. The court heard that he broke into a storage shed and stole tools from inside.

In addition to the burglary, Scaum admitted taking a vehicle without the owner’s consent and six separate shoplifting offences. On Sunday 4 May, he entered a property on Bramble Close in Holbury, where he stole keys before using them to take a vehicle that did not belong to him. The vehicle was later recovered.

The shoplifting offences took place between October and December at Tesco Express in Langdown Lawn, Hythe; Tesco on Beaulieu Road, Dibden; and One Stop on Fairview Parade, Hythe. Items stolen included meat, alcohol and advent calendars.

The magistrates were told Scaum was already subject to a community order at the time of the offences. Due to his wilful and persistent failure to comply with the conditions of that order, the court stated there was no option but to impose a custodial sentence.

Speaking after sentencing, Waterside Neighbourhood Policing Team Sergeant Glenn Wilshere said:

“I’m pleased for all the victims of Scaum that he has now been placed behind bars, unable to commit further crimes.

I hope this outcome offers them some comfort and reassurance, safe in the knowledge that this prolific offender is no longer roaming the streets.

Scaum had a complete disregard for the conditions of his community order, something which has been reflected in the sentence handed down.

He is now facing up to the consequences of his actions and will have time, including over Christmas, to think about his crimes and the impact of these.

This case should once again demonstrate our commitment to seriously tackling burglars, whether residential or non-dwelling, vehicle thieves and shoplifters.

We won’t tolerate these crimes in our area and will work tirelessly to arrest, charge and bring offenders before the courts.”

Police are continuing to encourage residents and businesses to report incidents and suspicious activity. Reports can be made by calling 101 or via 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.

Advice on protecting homes, businesses and shops from crime is available through the constabulary’s crime prevention resources.