WILLENHALL, UK – Matthew Smith, 47, of no fixed abode, has been sentenced to 10 weeks in prison after pleading guilty to four shop thefts at a convenience store on Lichfield Road, Willenhall, between March 10 and April 27, 2025.
Smith was arrested by officers from West Midlands Police on Darwall Street, Walsall, on April 28, following a series of thefts targeting the store. Smith appeared at Wolverhampton Magistrates Court on April 29 where he admitted to the offences, leading to his immediate imprisonment.
A spokesperson for West Midlands Police stated: “Matthew Smith is a prolific shop thief who has caused significant distress to local businesses. His repeated offending has had a real impact on the community.”
Sergeant Paul Smith, Willenhall’s neighbourhood policing manager, remarked: “Smith’s long history of theft-related offences and his clear disregard for court orders meant that he was a significant nuisance to local shops. This sentencing sends a strong message to other offenders that we are committed to tackling shop theft in our area.”
The police also highlighted the importance of Op Marigold, a special initiative launched in Walsall LPA to address the rise in shop thefts across the borough.
Smith’s sentence is a reflection of the West Midlands Police’s commitment to tackling local crime and protecting businesses from theft.
