Hastings ‘prolific’ shoplifter jailed after One Stop theft

Karl Williams was arrested on Sunday, July 13, and was charged the day after the theft at the One Stop shop with 11 additional offences at Brighton Magistrates’ Court.

The 41-year-old was also sentenced for previous thefts and breaches of bail conditions.

Williams, of Stonehouse Drive, Hastings, pleaded guilty to multiple thefts from local retailers.

Williams was jailed for 16 weeks following a string of thefts (Image: Sussex Police) Court documents noted his theft from the One Stop store on Ore Valley Road in Hastings, on June 17, 2025, where he stole £100 worth of confectionery.

The court ruled that Williams’ offences were “so serious that only a custodial sentence can be justified”.

The case was part of Operation Apprentice, a Sussex Police initiative targeting the most prolific shoplifters in each district.

A Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) was granted, with conditions to prevent further offending.

Williams stole £100 worth of confectionary from this One Stop (Image: Google)

These include not remaining on any Sussex retail premises after being asked to leave, and not entering any Co-Operative, Sainsbury’s, Tesco, or Poundland stores.

Williams is also barred from entering any retail premises with face coverings.

Inspector Matt Chapman said: “We are committed to bringing prolific offenders to justice and protecting local businesses from ongoing theft and disruption.

“I would like to thank all our partners but, most importantly, the businesses that are affected by shoplifting, for supporting investigations and providing vital evidence that allows us to take action.”