Southampton Man Jailed for Stealing Over £500 of Alcohol from Eastleigh Tesco

A 39 year old man from Southampton has been jailed for three months after admitting to stealing more than £500 worth of alcohol from a Tesco store in Eastleigh.

Martyn Paul Goddard, of Millbrook Road East, appeared at Southampton Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, 25 September, where he pleaded guilty to four counts of theft. The offences took place between Monday 25 August and Tuesday 23 September at Tesco in The Swan Centre.

Goddard was found to have stolen a total of £528 worth of spirits, including bottles of whiskey and gin. The court heard that he had shown a “flagrant disregard for people and their property,” prompting the judge to impose a custodial sentence.

Inspector Andy Mooge of the Eastleigh Neighbourhood Policing Team welcomed the sentence, stating it reflected the seriousness with which local police are treating retail crime.

“I’m pleased for the store in question, as well as the wider business community here, that Goddard has been held accountable for his actions.

“Retail crime is one of our local priorities, in addition to all the other work that the team deal with on a daily basis,” said Inspector Mooge.

“This case should once again demonstrate our commitment to seriously tackling shoplifting across the Eastleigh area.”

He also praised the efforts of store staff, crediting their cooperation with helping bring the case to court.

Inspector Mooge, said: “I must also place on record my huge thanks to the business concerned in this case for their support throughout our investigation.

“If it wasn’t for their hard work and help along the way, identifying Goddard and getting him to court would have been that much harder.

“I hope this outcome again demonstrates to businesses in Eastleigh that we take shoplifting seriously. Shoplifting is not a victimless crime and we know this type of offending has an impact on business owners, shoppers, and local residents,” he added. “I also hope this case sends out a very clear message to shoplifters, and anyone else thinking of committing criminality in our area, that we will not tolerate it and we will continue to work tirelessly to bring you before the courts.”

Police are continuing to urge shop owners and staff to report any incidents of shoplifting. Reports can be made by calling 101, submitting information online via the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary website, or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their website.