Shoplifting suspect in court following string of thefts and burglaries

Police investigating a month-long theft and burglary spree have now charged a suspect.

High-value jackets, bottles of alcohol and Warhammer figurines were just some of the items stolen during 15 shop thefts.

Eleven separate stores across Nottingham were targeted between 3 December and 9 January – with some hit multiple times as part of the crime series.

The first incident saw a thief walk into a shop in Nottingham city centre, grab items of clothing valued at more than £1,000, and then leave without paying.

Laundry products, a sleeping bag, and packets of pants were all taken in the thefts that followed over the next few weeks, while a staff member was threatened with violence during one incident.

A gazebo was also reportedly stolen when a house in The Park was burgled on 18 December, while cash was taken from the tills when a city centre store was broken into on 21 December as well.

Officers investigating the thefts and break-ins have identified Raymond Ward as a suspect, with the 31-year-old being charged with 15 shop thefts, two burglaries, and using threatening words with intent to cause fear of violence.

Ward, of St Peters Street, Nottingham, appeared at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court on Saturday (11 January).

He has been released on bail with strict conditions, ahead of his next appearance at Nottingham Crown Court on 7 February.

Detective Constable Kirsty Allison, of Nottinghamshire Police, said:

“We know, having listened to our communities, about the significant impact shoplifting can have on local businesses and residents.

“Put simply, it’s unfair on those who follow the rules and spend their hard-earned money in the shops, when others decide to do the opposite and steal.

“This a very serious offence, as it is when anyone takes it upon themselves to break-into another person’s property.

“We will always treat these types of crimes with the seriousness they deserve and will continue to do whatever we can to identify suspects and put them before the courts.”