A SERIAL shoplifter has been put under a curfew after admitting his latest crime.

Shaun Thomson was stopped after stealing food from Marks and Spencer in Worthing.

The 33-year-old admitted stealing £80 worth of goods in November last year.

Thomson was previously convicted of seven counts of theft from shops in May last year. He was given a suspended sentence.

But at Worthing Magistrates’ Court it was decided that because of a letter from homeless charity Turning Tides, sending Thomson to prison was not justified.

The court made no order for court costs because he already owes large sums.

Magistrate Marley Isaac put Thomson, of Lyndhurst Road, Worthing, under curfew for three months, between 8pm and 7am. He must pay £40 compensation.