A shoplifter has been banned from Co-op stores across Norfolk following thefts totalling more than £5,100 in value. 

Jacob Hearle, 44, of Smith Close in Blofield was arrested on November 3 and taken to Wymondham Police Station for questioning.

While searching his home, officers seized a knife, cocaine and a number of suspected stolen items.

He was subsequently charged with 25 shop thefts which had occurred at Co-op stores across Norwich, Costessey, Long Stratton, Acle and Brundall between September 19 and November 1.

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Items including meat, coffee, confectionery and alcohol were stolen.

In court, Hearle pleaded guilty to the 25 shop thefts, possession of an offensive weapon, possession of a class A drug (cocaine) and money laundering.

During his court appearance, he also admitted to a further 24 offences which included thefts from shops, attempted theft from a shop and threatening behaviour offences. 

The offences - which took place between August 11 and November 2 across Norwich, Brundall and Wymondham - were taken into consideration by the court under Operation Converter.

At Norwich Magistrates’ Court on Thursday Hearle was given a Criminal Behaviour Order banning him from entering any East of England Co-op within Norfolk for five years and a 52-week prison sentence suspended for 24 months.