A prolific shoplifter from Farnham has been jailed for 24 months after being caught in the act in a nearby town.

Abbie Folkes was charged with two counts of theft from a shop after being arrested by Hart and Rushmoor patrol officers in Aldershot last Wednesday, March 5.

The 32-year-old of East Street was sentenced two days later at Basingstoke Magistrates Court after pleading guilty to the aforementioned counts and breaching a criminal behaviour order.

The court heard that officers spotted Folkes leaving the Sainsbury’s store on Ash Road in suspicious circumstances. The defendant, who is known to the police, tried to run away but was detained nearby.

“While being searched officers found a number of stolen goods from the Sainsbury’s store in addition to Iceland products from The Range on Ivy Road,” the court heard.

The defendant’s guilty plea was taken into consideration with the sentence being welcomed by police.

“Abbie Folkes is a prolific offender and attempted to run away from officers,” said A/Police Sergeant Daniel Evans.

“We quickly caught up with her and found a number of stolen goods.

“We know her actions have had a huge impact on businesses, shop workers and the wider community.”