Woman Remanded in Custody After Pleading Guilty to Multiple Shoplifting Offences

A 35-year-old woman has been remanded in custody after pleading guilty to a series of shoplifting offences across Southampton.

Samantha Melanie Gavagan, who has no fixed address, admitted to 12 counts of stealing from stores in Sholing and Bitterne. The incidents, which took place between 19 September and 23 November, 2025, involved entering Co-op, Tesco, and One Stop stores on Butts Road, South East Road, and Portsmouth Road.

The items stolen were valued at nearly £700 and included alcohol, chocolates, meat products, cheese, and coffee.

Following her guilty plea at Southampton Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 19 December, Gavagan was remanded in custody and is due to appear again on 12 January, 2026.

Police have reminded residents that officers will be out on patrol throughout the festive period, conducting routine beat patrols and targeting criminal activity as the city prepares for Christmas and New Year celebrations.