A prolific thief who stole 17 tubes of Pringles in a series of burglaries told police “once you pop, you can’t stop”.
Adam Spencer, 40, was stopped by police in Sutton-on-Ashfield last Tuesday after being recognised by officers.
Police said the series of thefts began on April 11 at Tesco in Alfreton Road, as well as Asda and Iceland stores on Priestic Road on April 17.
On May 2, Spencer broke into an Iceland store at 2.40am and stole meat products before returning two hours later and taking £300 worth of stock.
He returned to the shop for another theft on May 19.
He took 17 pots of Pringles during one of the thefts, which Spencer later admitted to when questioned by police – telling them “once you pop, you can’t stop”.
Last Wednesday, Spencer pleaded guilty to two burglaries and three thefts at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court.
He was sentenced the same day to six months in prison suspended for 12 months.
Spencer was also ordered to pay £200 in compensation and complete a six-month drug rehabilitation requirement programme.
PC Dean Fenton, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “The actions of prolific thieves like Spencer can have a really negative impact on communities, who don’t want to see their stores targeted again and again.
“Shoplifting isn’t a victimless crime. These offences hurt businesses, affect people’s livelihoods, and can ultimately result in shoppers having to pay more for items as prices go up as a result.
“Burglary is also a very serious offence, so we were pleased to be able to link Spencer to the two he was involved in, as well as the shop thefts, and put him before the courts.”
