Prolific shoplifter David Cullen from New Milton jailed for five thefts, assault on store worker, and possessing cocaine and cannabis

A PROLIFIC shoplifter from New Milton who attacked a staff member and targeted three stores over five thefts has been jailed for 20 weeks.

David Cullen (34), of Dinham Road, was also caught in possession of cocaine and cannabis, Southampton Magistrates’ Court heard.

He pleaded guilty to assaulting the female store worker by beating at Morrisons Daily on Station Road on 17th September, and stealing £48.80 of meat from there on that date.

Cullen also pleaded guilty to another four thefts committed between 4th September and 13th October.

Two of these were at the Morrisons supermarket on Station Road, with Avenue Road’s Morrisons Daily and Nisa Local in Ashley also hit.

Another £60.76 of goods was taken, comprising more meat and packets of steak, as well as gin and a sandwich.

As well as these offences, Cullen admitted possessing quantities of class A and B controlled drugs on Marryat Road on 20th September.

He also admitted having a quantity of cannabis at his home address on 28th October.

The Bench ruled the offences were so serious that only custody could be justified.

They also cited Cullen’s similar previous convictions and the fact he offended while serving a suspended sentence.

The defendant was also ordered to fully compensate the stores for their losses, and forfeit the drugs for destruction.