Two suspected shoplifters have appeared in court after multiple thefts in a town.

On Sunday (February 11) a woman went into the Co-op in Ashford Road, Harrietsham, and stole £300 of confectionery.

She entered the shop on two occasions between 3.20pm and 3.40pm.

Sharna Steady of Mangravet Avenue, Maidstone, was later charged with two counts of shoplifting.

The 33-year-old pleaded guilty at Medway Magistrates’ Court on Monday (February 12).

She has since been remanded in custody pending a sentencing hearing at Maidstone Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, February 27.

Police have also identified a suspect after seven instances of shoplifting were reported to have happened in Maidstone between November 2 and January 15. Nearly £1,000 worth of items were stolen.

“As a force, we recognise the impact of shoplifting not only on the businesses affected, but on the wider community...”

On Saturday (February 10) officers arrested a man.

Luke Ransome of Captains Close, Sutton Valence, appeared before Medway Magistrates’ Court on Monday (February 12) where he pleaded guilty to seven counts of shoplifting.

The 45-year-old has since been remanded in custody pending a hearing at the same court on Wednesday, February 21.

Local Policing Chief Inspector, Mark McLellan, said: “Focused efforts by local policing teams have seen more and more repeat shoplifting offenders being brought before the courts.

“As a force, we recognise the impact of shoplifting not only on the businesses affected but on the wider community who see the cost of everyday items go up as a result.

“I continue to urge members of the public who witness thefts to report them, so that we can continue to crackdown on crime in our high streets.”