Telford man jailed for theft, including from charity shop

A man has been given a six-month custodial sentence for shoplifting offences, which included stealing clothes from a Telford charity shop.

Jonathan Beatty-Thomas, of no fixed abode, was handed the sentence on Tuesday (24 March) at Telford Magistrates Court. He pleaded guilty to six counts of theft, one count of criminal damage and four counts of breaching a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO).

The court heard how the 36-year-old had stolen from a number of stores across Telford between February 2026 and this month (March).

Beatty-Thomas stole a total of £322 worth of goods, including £19 worth of clothes from the British Heart Foundation in Telford Centre. He also stole a £99 coat from Marks & Spencer and £65 worth of fragrances from Boots in Telford’s shopping centre. 

The court also heard how Beatty-Thomas had breached a CBO, given to him in January 2026, on four separate occasions when he entered Telford Centre where he was prohibited from entering. He also damaged a window belonging to a salon in Wellington on Sunday 1 February.

Sergeant Rich Jones, from Telford’s town centre team, said: “Stealing from any business causes real harm, but targeting a charity shop is particularly unacceptable. These organisations rely on donations to support vulnerable people in our communities, and offences like this take directly from those who need help the most.

“I welcome the custodial sentence handed to Beatty‑Thomas. His repeated thefts, criminal damage and continued breaches of his Criminal Behaviour Order showed a clear disregard for the law and for the community. 

“Our officers work hard to identify prolific offenders and bring them before the courts, and this case demonstrates that persistent criminality will be met with firm action. We will continue to support local retailers and charity organisations and ensure Telford remains a safe place to live, work and visit.”