Courageous off-duty officer stops prolific shoplifter

An off-duty police officer has detained a prolific shoplifter despite being threatened.

On 9th July, Ashley Williamson of no fixed abode, was caught in the act of stealing items from Sainsburys on Tamworth Road but threatened Long Eaton Safer Neighbourhood Team officer PC Dugard with a syringe.

The offender was charged with a total of eleven offences which consisted of two Public Order Offences, eight Shop Thefts and a breach of his Criminal Behaviour Order.  He attended Derbyshire Magistrates Court on 10th July where he pleaded guilty and was given a 12-month custodial sentence.

Acting Sergeant Limb of the Long Eaton SNT said: ”This is a great result, Williamson is a persistent offender who has no regard or respect for staff who work in our local shops serving the community. I would also like to acknowledge PC Dugard's bravery when tackling Williamson.”