Woman sentenced after Skegness shoplifting spree across six stores in two weeks

A woman who went on a shop lifting spree in Skegness, targeting six shops in a little over two weeks has been sentenced following swift action by police and retail partners to curb repeat offending.

The woman from Skegness has been handed a 12-week custodial sentence, suspended for 18 months, served a two-year Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO), an alcohol and drug treatment requirement, and has been ordered to pay compensation.

Lorna Smith, 38, of Roman Bank, Skegness, appeared at Lincoln Magistrates’ court on Thursday 18 February. She pleaded guilty to six shop thefts between 31 January and 17 February, resisting arrest, and obstructing a police constable.

As part of her sentencing, Smith was handed a CBO which lasts for two years from 18 February 2026. Conditions imposed were to prohibit her from entering all retail premises in Skegness with the exception of Tesco, Richmond Drive and Skegness Pharmacy, Lumley Road; and if found guilty of a breach, this would result in a further conviction. The sentence would be at the court’s discretion; they could impose a maximum sentence of up to five years imprisonment or a fine, or both.

Our use of CBOs is proving positive in our fight against retail crime.  We are increasingly seeing individuals being sent to prison to serve their suspended sentences as a result of these breaches.

The officer in charge of this case, Community Beat Manager, PC Lucy Hawley said: “As your local beat team, we work very closely with our store partners and other agencies to keep our community a safe and welcoming place to live and visit. When individuals repeatedly cause anti‑social behaviour, we’ll use the full range of ASB legislation and civil orders available to us. This is a key part of how we proactively prevent crime and protect the area we all share.”

Pictured: Lorna Smith