A ‘PROLIFIC shoplifter’ has been jailed and banned from entering Ashton-under-Lyne town centre.
Steven Wrigley was caught after operating at B&M Bargains, on Bow Street, and he was located at the car park on Swan Street.
PCSOs Ryan Chadwick and Helen Brockett were deployed to the entrance of the car park and, within seconds, located the 44-year-old hiding in an alleyway nearby.
While attempting to detain him, Wrigley assaulted both support officers, but after sergeant Rob Froggatt joined them, he was arrested on suspicion of theft, assaulting an emergency worker, and breaching a court order.
While in custody, Wrigley was further arrested in connection with an additional theft offence.
He later pleaded guilty to all counts at court and was sentenced to immediate imprisonment for four weeks and handed a Criminal Behaviour Order.
That prohibits Wrigley from entering Ashton-Under-Lyne town centre.
Sgt Froggatt, from the Ashton-Under-Lyne town centre neighbourhood team, said: “This is a great example of our swift and efficient response to a problem the community has told us about, retail theft.
“Within just 10 minutes of the initial report, a known prolific shoplifter was located and detained thanks to the excellent teamwork of our neighbourhood officers.
“As a sergeant, it’s important for me to be hands-on and out on patrol with my team, tackling crime and supporting our communities directly.
“We are committed to making Ashton a safer and more welcoming place and taking offenders like this off the streets plays a key part in that.
“We will continue to act on the information you give us, so please keep reporting concerns to us.”