A ‘prolific’ shoplifter has been convicted of several charges of theft.

Adam Summerford, of no fixed address, appeared before Brighton Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, November 30, and pleaded guilty to 14 charges of theft.

The 33-year-old stole items from The Range, Sports Direct, Co-op and Sainsbury’s in Eastbourne.

Stolen items included a vacuum cleaner, clothing, alcohol and food.

The incidents took place between October 23 and November 26 and Summerford was arrested on November 28 and remanded in custody.

Police used CCTV and worked with the businesses to identify Summerford as the suspect.

“Adam Summerford is a prolific offender and was identified thanks to the collaboration between Sussex Police, businesses and our partners in the community,” said PC Christopher Holmes, of Eastbourne, Lewes and Wealden neighbourhood policing team.

“This teamwork is vital in catching repeat offenders who are causing harm to our communities – not only financial losses to the businesses they target, but to the shop workers who are intimidated and forced into impossible situations.

“We will continue to work alongside the business community to protect them from harm and bring perpetrators to justice.”

Last Wednesday, Summerford was handed a 12-week custodial sentence at Brighton Magistrates’ Court, suspended for 18 months.

He was also ordered to undertake a drug rehabilitation programme.