Prolific Shoplifters Caught in the Act by Met Police in Hackney

Two prolific shoplifters have been sentenced to prison after being caught red-handed by Metropolitan Police officers while attempting to burgle a Co-Op store in Hackney.

Caught on Camera

The incident occurred on December 22, 2024, when Donavan Soloman and Lee Moise, both wearing balaclavas, targeted the Co-Op on Homerton High Street. Neighbourhood officers, who were conducting a proactive operation at the store in response to rising shoplifting concerns, spotted the pair on CCTV and swiftly detained them at the scene.

The dramatic moment of their arrest was captured on video and has since been released by the Met Police as part of their ongoing effort to tackle prolific shoplifting in the area.

Arrest and Sentencing

Both men were taken into custody and later charged with burglary and criminal damage.

• Donavan Soloman, 37, of Avenue Road, Beckenham, pleaded guilty at Wood Green Crown Court and was sentenced to 10 months’ imprisonment. He had four prior convictions for theft.
• Lee Moise, 38, of Croyland Road, Edmonton, pleaded guilty at Snaresbrook Crown Court and was sentenced to 12 months’ imprisonment. He had 10 prior convictions for theft.

Police Statement

Inspector Mohammed Uddin from the Homerton neighbourhood policing team said:
“Across the Met, we’re focused on tackling the most prolific shoplifters as we know the fear they cause retail workers and the negative impact their offending has on communities.

We’re working with local business owners to understand their concerns, and we’ll continue our crackdown with operations such as this one, as well as our regular patrols.

Ongoing Efforts to Tackle Shoplifting

The Met’s proactive approach has resulted in prison sentences for six prolific shoplifters in the Homerton area over the past seven months. Officers are continuing their efforts to identify a third man believed to be involved in the Co-Op burglary.

Local businesses have expressed relief at the arrests, praising the police for their targeted operations and commitment to making the area safer.

Community Impact

The crackdown on shoplifting is part of a broader strategy to reduce crime and support local businesses in Hackney. Retailers have reported feeling safer following increased patrols and proactive measures taken by the Met Police.

Anyone with information about the third suspect or similar incidents is encouraged to contact the Met Police or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.