A MAN has been handed a community order after a string of shoplifting offences in Sandwell.

Amritpal Singh, aged 23, pleaded guilty to five counts of theft and one count of attempted theft when he appeared at Wolverhampton Crown Court today (Friday June 28).

The charges relate to incidents in which whiskey and chocolate was stolen from stores in Tipton and West Bromwich over the last three months and Singh’s arrest this week was part of a drive by West Midlands Police to crack down on prolific shoplifting.

Singh, of St Paul Crescent, West Bromwich, was handed a community order with a rehabilitation activity requirement. He was also fined £10 and ordered to pay £252 in compensation.

A spokesperson for West Midlands Police said: “Retail crime effects everyone and we understand how frustrating it is both for businesses and the public.

“This is why we are increasing our efforts to target prolific shoplifters in Sandwell.

“We are identifying reoccurring offenders, shoplifting hotspots, emerging trends and arresting suspects.”