Man jailed after what he did at Matalan and Tesco

Gareth Shaw, 44, of Links Avenue in Southport, pushed a shop assistant when confronted with theft

Gareth Shaw, 44, of Links Avenue in Southport(Image: Merseyside Police)

A man has been jailed and given a criminal behavior order after attacking a shop assistant and committing multiple shoplifting incidents South Gate. Gareth Shaw, 44, of Links Avenue in Southport, appeared at Wirral Magistrates Court and pleaded guilty to six counts of theft and common assault.

The court heard that on Monday, November 18, Shaw entered Matalan on Marine Parade and took £80 worth of toys from the shop. He became aggressive towards people and pushed a shop assistant when confronted about the theft.

Shaw was also convicted of stealing items Tesco and Holland & Barrett in Chapel Street. He was sentenced to 17 weeks in prison and given a two-year ban from entering the following areas in Southport; Chapel Street, Co-Op store on Fylde Road and Ocean Plaza will not be open until November 19, 2026.

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Detective Inspector Sara Lang said: “Shaw brazenly took stock and walked out of the shops without paying for the goods. He was identified on a number of occasions as having stolen items from various shops in Southport.

“No one should be assaulted or subjected to aggressive behavior, especially store staff carrying out their duties, and this will not be tolerated. Theft from stores is not a victimless crime and has a huge impact not only on the business, but also on the community.

‘If your Shaw breaches this order after being released from prison, please report it to Merseyside Police. We hope this serves as a clear warning to others that the force will take strong steps to tackle prolific offenders, working with businesses and partners.”

Anyone with information about suspected theft or anti-social behavior can speak to local officers, report it to us online or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Always call 999 if a crime is in progress.