'Jellycat' thief sentenced

A woman has been sentenced after stealing almost £3,000 worth of ‘Jellycat’ soft toys from garden centres across South Norfolk, Broadland, and Breckland.

Ruby Smith, aged 35, of Victoria Hill, Eye, appeared at Norwich Magistrates’ Court today (Monday 17 February 2025) charged with seven counts of theft from shops, which she had pleaded guilty to at a previous hearing.

The seven incidents of shoplifting occurred between 25 July and 23 September 2024 at three different garden centres, in Bressingham, Wroxham, and Thetford.

CCTV footage captured Smith walking around the stores placing soft toys into either her bag, into her clothing, or in a child’s pram before leaving without making attempts to pay.

Officers from South Norfolk’s Neighbourhood Policing Team conducted a warrant at Smith’s address on 14 November 2024 following investigations into all incidents.

During the search, approximately 40 toys were located and seized.

Smith was arrested on suspicion of theft and taken to Wymondham Police Investigation Centre for questioning. 

She was charged with seven counts of shoplifting and released on bail.

Appearing at Norwich Magistrates’ Court  Smith was handed a 26 week prison sentence, suspended for 24 months.

She was also made subject of electronic monitoring for three months, ordered to pay £1,400 in compensation and a £154  victim surcharge,  as well as participate in an accredited programme for 40 days, and a Rehabilitation Activity Programme for up to seven days.