Teenager accused of robbing Boots stores across London banned from every branch in the country

Boots in Chiswick High Road

Seventeen year old charged with stealing £130,000 worth of goods in dozens of raids

A teenager who is accused of robbing Boots stores across London, including those in the boroughs of Hounslow and Hammersmith & Fulham, has been banned from every Boots store in the country.

The 17 year old is alleged to have gone on a shoplifting spree and taken an estimated £130,000 worth of goods off the shelves in dozens of raids on shops. The Police say they have evidence of him being caught on CCTV repeatedly loading a bag with items before walking out without paying.

He cannot be named because of his age, but has been charged with 53 counts of shoplifting from Boots. He is also alleged to have stolen from Holland and Barrett on four occasions.

Writing in the Evening Standard, Press Association court reporter Tristan Kirk reported the case at Highbury Corner Youth Court was adjourned on Monday (9 February) because of the sheer volume of CCTV evidence that lawyers need to assess.

Prosecutor Jyothi Somavarapu told the court:

“These are serious charges, there is a lot of revenue lost with high-value cosmetic products selected”.

“There are a huge number of individuals entering these stores, taking items and covering their heads so that it is tricky for the investigating officers.”

The Boots store in Chiswick High Road has been targeted repeatedly by thieves.

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The case was adjourned until Monday 9 March. Magistrates agreed to free the teenager on bail providing he does not go to any Boots or Holland and Barrett store in England and Wales, unless he is accompanied by a family member.

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