Prolific Plymouth shoplifter jailed after repeatedly targeting major high street stores

A prolific shoplifter has been jailed after stealing more than £700 worth of goods from shops across Plymouth in less than a month.

Ross Dansie, 32, of no fixed abode, pleaded guilty to nine counts of shoplifting.

READ NEXT: Newton Abbot council delays comment on Wolborough Fen dispute as inquiry looms

He admitted stealing a range of items including alcohol, household products and coffee from stores including Boots, Marks & Spencer and Tesco between January 29 and February 25.

Dansie appeared at Plymouth Magistrates’ Court on Monday, March 9, where he was sentenced to a total of 34 weeks in prison.

Police said the offences were part of a spree of repeated shoplifting across the city.

Police Sergeant Steve Dykes, from the neighbourhood policing team, said:

“It was clear to see the harm that Dansie’s prolific offending was causing, so I welcome this outcome from the courts.

“Shoplifting can have a profound impact on our communities, not only the financial impact on businesses, but also the impact that repeated behaviour like this can have on the wellbeing of employees.”

Dansie had previously been given a 10-week prison sentence, suspended for 12 months, in October 2025.

The court took this into account during sentencing, adding a further 24 weeks for the latest offences, bringing his total jail term to 34 weeks.

PS Dykes added: “I would urge businesses impacted by shoplifting, or anyone who witnesses it, to please report it.

“Your information is key in helping us to build evidence against prolific offenders so that we can put them before the courts, just like in the case of Dansie.

“Together we can continue to create a safer Plymouth.”

The investigation was led by the Crime Management Investigation Team with support from neighbourhood officers from Devon and Cornwall Police.

Police say shoplifting and other crimes can be reported online or via the 101 non-emergency service, with anonymous reports also being possible through Crimestoppers.