Shoplifter Jailed After Stealing Perfume and Men’s Accessories in Southampton

A Southampton man has been jailed after stealing perfume and men’s accessories from shops in the city centre.

Jason Butt, 54, of Southampton Street, stole perfume worth £38 from Superdrug on Above Bar Street on 24 September. He also took men’s accessory items of unknown value from Next in Westquay on 7 July.

Butt was arrested and charged with two counts of theft from a shop. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to eight weeks in prison at Southampton Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, 16 October.

PC Katie Walker, from the Southampton Neighbourhood Policing Team, said the offences had caused significant disruption for local retailers.

“We know that Jason Butt’s behaviour has had a huge impact on businesses, shop workers and the wider community,” she said. “We take all reports of shoplifting extremely seriously and I hope this result reassures the local community that we will do all we can to put offenders before the courts.”

PC Walker encouraged local businesses to continue reporting incidents of shoplifting to police.

Shop owners and staff can report non-urgent crimes by calling 101 or via the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary website. In an emergency or if a crime is in progress, people should call 999.