By Amy Mackrill
Live Reporter
Frankie Saich, 39, of no fixed address, has been sentenced for a string of thefts and assaults in Norwich, following his conviction in Norwich Magistrates’ Court. Saich, described as a “prolific offender,” pleaded guilty to several offences that occurred between August 28 and September 17 of this year.
His crimes included one shop theft, assaulting an off-duty police officer, criminal damage, two thefts from motor vehicles, and two counts of fraud. On August 28, Saich was apprehended by an off-duty police officer in the city centre after running out of a store with three stolen coats. During the confrontation, Saich attempted to punch the officer and damaged his watch.
Further investigations revealed Saich had stolen debit cards from vehicles, later using them in various locations. He left fingerprints on documents found in one vehicle and was also caught on CCTV in another instance. Saich was released on bail to allow further investigation under Operation Converter, a specialized unit focusing on repeat offenders involved in similar crimes.
With additional time, authorities gathered further evidence leading to Saich admitting to eight more offences, including attempted thefts and further vehicle thefts. He was also handed a Criminal Behaviour Order, prohibiting him from entering vehicles or driveways without the owner’s permission.
At his sentencing, Saich received a two-month prison sentence, suspended for two years, and was ordered to pay £304 in compensation to three victims. Duncan Etchells, supervisor of Operation Converter, emphasized the significant impact Saich’s actions had on the community, and reiterated the commitment of law enforcement to hold repeat offenders accountable.
Saich’s case highlights the ongoing efforts to combat vehicle and shop thefts in the area, with a focus on bringing perpetrators to justice and working with retail partners to prevent such crimes.
