Published: November 19, 2008
Man charged after theft from Burnham-On-Sea supermarket

A man has been given a 12-month community order after Burnham's radio link scheme and Sedgemoor CCTV operators helped the police in his arrest following the theft of toiletries from a supermarket in the town.

The man was arrested at the Somerfield store in Pier Street after he stole more than £200 worth of toiletries.

PC Adrian Jones attended Somerfield after being contacted by staff via radio link, but the offender assaulted the officer and made off in a stolen vehicle – whilst disqualified from driving.

CCTV operators, who are joined to the radio link scheme, then captured the offender on camera as he was fleeing the scene in the stolen vehicle.

Sgt Ian Kennett told Burnham-On-Sea.com: "This is a positive result and a great demonstration of how the town's radio link can really be of assistance."

"Sedgemoor Council's CCTV operators also played a vital part and goes to show just what can be achieved when the police, partner agencies and the local community work together."

"The radio link system was put to good use and led directly to a violent thief being arrested and charged."

The offender has appeared at Sedgemoor Magistrates court and pleaded guilty to stealing toiletries at Somerfield, driving a vehicle whilst disqualified, and driving a vehicle without third party insurance.

He was given a 12-month community order, was disqualified from driving for nine months and fined £85.