Serial shoplifter jailed for £2,346 of stolen goods
Garth Murphy received an 18-week sentence and is banned from SW5 and local Sainsbury's stores.
Incident → evidence → outcomeA serial shoplifter has been jailed for 18 weeks after stealing thousands of pounds worth of goods from a Kensington and Chelsea supermarket. Garth Murphy, who had no fixed abode, admitted to 14 shoplifting offences and possession of cannabis.
The thefts and arrest
Murphy targeted the Sainsbury's store on Earls Court Road, stealing cleaning products between August 27 and October 10. The total value of the stolen items was £2,346. Police Constable Hellen Hall stated that the thefts caused "anxiety" to staff and that the suspect appeared "untouchable".
On October 10, plain-clothed officers arrested Murphy, 42, as he attempted to leave the store with £78 worth of items. He was subsequently charged and appeared at Hendon Magistrates’ Court on October 12, where he pleaded guilty to all charges.
Sentence and restrictions
As well as the 18-week prison sentence, Murphy was issued with a Community Protection Notice. This notice prohibits him from entering the SW5 postcode area and all Sainsbury's branches within Kensington and Chelsea. He is also banned from trespassing on residential premises within the borough.
Questions this report answers
01How long has Garth Murphy been jailed for?
Garth Murphy has been sentenced to 18 weeks imprisonment. This sentence covers 14 shoplifting offences and a charge of possessing cannabis.
02What did Garth Murphy steal?
Murphy stole cleaning products from a Sainsbury's store on Earls Court Road. The total value of the goods taken was £2,346.
03What restrictions are in place for Garth Murphy?
Murphy is banned from the SW5 postcode area and all Sainsbury's stores located within Kensington and Chelsea. He is also prohibited from trespassing on residential properties in the borough.
Support is available without a police report
Find London services, specialist support and the rights set out in the Victims’ Code. If someone is in immediate danger, call 999.
Find victim supportSend a correction or case update
If a hearing, charge or outcome has changed, send the court, case number and source document so we can update the record.
Contact the desk
