A woman stole £4k of Jellycat toys from Norfolk garden centers, hiding them in a pram. She was caught after a police investigation.
Jellycat toys are very popular now in the UK. This demand led to more shoplifting. These toys cost £14 to £200 each. She went to court in Norwich about it.
She stole from garden centers during July and September. She hit three different stores a total of seven times. Most thefts happened at Bressingham Garden Centre. She stole £1,600 worth on July 20. Weeks later, she took £1,679 more.
A third theft got her £512 worth. She stole from Wroxham Barns and Thetford Garden Centre too. CCTV showed her putting toys in a bag or pram. She left each store without paying. Police found many toys at her house. Many had tags still on them. Some were ready to mail.
Smith admitted to seven theft charges. She said she was very sorry. Her lawyer talked about her past and kids’ involvement. He said she had money troubles. Her partner had lost his job.
She felt desperate during that time. Shoplifting was not her first thought. The court suspended her 26-week sentence for two years. She must attend a rehabilitation program.
She must wear a tag for three months. The court made her pay £1,780 too. The judge warned her about breaking the rules. If she does, she will go to prison.