Preston thief jailed after crime spate

Maegan Jean Lathrope, of no fixed abode, admitted a string of six thefts, attempted theft and an assault when she appeared before Preston Magistrates’ Court.

Prosecutors said the 32-year-old, who was subject to post sentence supervision, repeatedly targeted Boots in Preston on January 7, 14, 16, 25 and 28, stealing beauty products and perfume amounting to £714.

But the spate came to an end on January 28 this year when she entered a Nisa store was caught attempting to steal steak and coffee.

A worker who tried to intervene was assaulted.

The bench ordered her to pay compensation of £50 to the assault victim and a further £350 compensation to Boots.

Lathrope also admitted a theft on August 16 last year, when she stole beauty and laundry items from Wilkos.