A man has been sentenced to four weeks in prison after being caught stealing a bag full of chicken and mince from a Co-Op store in Welling.

John Piro, 48, was arrested alongside another alleged shoplifter after they were seen leaving the Co-Op store with stolen goods. The incident occurred earlier this week, prompting a swift response from the Metropolitan Police Service in Welling.

Both individuals were subsequently charged, with Piro remanded in custody and the other awaiting a court date.

In a tweet released on Saturday (June 8), the Metropolitan Police Service in Welling confirmed Piro’s conviction and sentencing. The tweet read:

“Two prolific shoplifters were arrested after they were seen leaving CO-OP with a bag full of chicken and mince. Both were charged with one remanded and the other awaiting a court date. Following on from yesterday’s post… John Piro, 48, was convicted at court and sentenced to 4 weeks imprisonment for numerous shopliftings at Co-op stores.”

Piro’s conviction comes as part of ongoing efforts by local law enforcement to crack down on shoplifting and other petty crimes in the area. The Metropolitan Police Service in Welling has emphasized its commitment to tackling such offences and ensuring that offenders are brought to justice.

The case highlights the challenges faced by retail stores in dealing with shoplifting and the importance of community vigilance in reporting suspicious activities.

Authorities have not released the name of the second individual involved, who is still awaiting a court date.

Residents are encouraged to report any incidents of shoplifting or other criminal activities to the local police to help maintain safety and security in the community.