A persistent shoplifter who stole more than £6,000 of goods from a Greenwich BP store has had more prison time added to his eight-month sentence. 

John Harris Bolton, 38, repeatedly targeted the shop over six months, taking meat, alcohol, and other products. 

He was first arrested on February 4 and despite his initial charge and bail, he continued to steal. 

He was then rearrested on March 13 pleaded guilty to 31 counts of theft. 

In April he was jailed for 35 weeks and was banned from entering any south east London based BP store for the next five years. 

On Monday (July 8) Bolton appeared at Bromley Magistrates’ Court again where he was given an addition two weeks on his sentence after he admitted eight more thefts from the same shop. 

Superintendent Rav Pathania, leading local policing in Greenwich, said: “Bolton stole a huge amount of goods, and I’m pleased he’s paid the price for his crimes. 

“We know the damaging effect shoplifting has on businesses, especially the awful impact on workers who feel threatened by those who target their workplace. 

“This was a massive effort which I hope demonstrates how we will drive down crime, listen to community concerns, and tackle criminals who target shops and businesses.” 

BP UK security manager Jim Brand said: “The safety and security of our valued colleagues and customers always comes first. 

“This is a great example of how by working together we can tackle the issue of rising levels of crime and abuse in the retail sector - and send a clear message that crime has no place in our stores.” 

Michael Walters, Area Manager, Safer Business Network, said: “Safer Business Network were commissioned by Royal Greenwich Council to implement Business Crime Reduction Partnerships across the borough to improve community safety and reduce crime. 

"We believe in collaborative multi agency problem solving with key stakeholders to find solutions to local problems. 

“This is a perfect example demonstrating the power of intelligence sharing and how working together to identify prolific offenders can mean positive action is taken to protect businesses.”