Local wine thief jailed for repeated offences

A Teignmouth woman has been jailed after a string of thefts, including stealing wine from a local store, led to her conviction at Exeter Crown Court.

Lucy Hanks, 37, of Bitton Park Road, was sentenced to 16 months in custody after pleading guilty to four thefts, breaching a suspended sentence order, violating a court order, and possessing methadone.

The court heard that in March of last year, Hanks breached her bail conditions by entering Tesco Express in Teignmouth. Inside, she selected 17 bottles of wine, concealed them in two bags, and left the store without paying.

Hanks then returned to the store, wearing the same clothing, carrying the now empty bags and filled them up with a further 17 bottles of wine before leaving again. The thefts, estimated to be worth over £300, were captured on CCTV.

Despite being arrested and bailed again with the condition not to return to the store, Hanks re-entered the Tesco Express on April 7 and stole more food items.

The final offence occurred on October 30, 2024, when officers attended a domestic incident at Tesco Extra in Kingsteignton. During a search, Hanks was found in possession of methadone, despite not having a prescription.

Neighbourhood Beat Manager for Teignmouth, Robbie Mangham, said: “Hanks continued to target and steal from the same shop regardless of the conditions imposed upon her. Her persistent actions have affected shop staff and highlight her as a significant shoplifter. We welcome the sentence and will continue to crack down on shoplifting in our community.”

Business owners are urged to report shoplifting incidents either online, by calling 101, or in emergencies by dialing 999.