A man has been convicted of 18 offences after stealing goods worth more than £1,300 from businesses in Hastings, police have reported.

A Sussex Police spokesperson said: “Following an investigation by local officers into a series of shop thefts, Tom Marchant, 44, of no fixed address, was charged with 17 shop theft offences, 16 of which were committed during October at stores in Station Plaza and Castle Street, Hastings.

“The offences involved goods worth more than £1,300, consisting of meat, sweets and chocolate.

“He was also charged with possession of a Class B drug.

Tom Marchant, 44, of no fixed address, was charged with 17 shop theft offences, 16 of which were committed during October at stores in Station Plaza and Castle Street, Hastings. Picture courtesy of Sussex Police

placeholder image — Tom Marchant, 44, of no fixed address, was charged with 17 shop theft offences, 16 of which were committed during October at stores in Station Plaza and Castle Street, Hastings. Picture courtesy of Sussex Police

“Marchant was arrested on 26 October and appeared before Brighton & Hove Magistrates' Court the following day, where he pleaded guilty to all 18 offences.

“He was remanded into custody and is due to appear at Lewes Crown Court on 24 November for sentencing.”

Sergeant Sam Turner said: “Business crime can have a significant effect on those who live and work in our communities.

“This result reflects the value of businesses reporting incidents and working with local officers. We remain committed to supporting retailers and taking a action against those responsible.”