A prolific shoplifter who stole hundreds of Cadbury’s Crème Eggs during a crime spree across Peterborough has been jailed.
Leah Harding, 37, was sentenced to 41 weeks in prison after admitting five counts of shop theft at Peterborough Magistrates’ Court.
Hundreds of Easter Treats Stolen
Harding stole 64 boxes of Crème Eggs from a garden centre on 13 February before continuing her spree across multiple locations.
Later the same day, she targeted another store, stealing bottles of alcohol worth around £300, before going on to commit further thefts at a Co-op.
She was arrested on 18 March following the series of offences.
Ordered to Pay Compensation
As well as the prison sentence, Harding was ordered to pay £882.26 in compensation to the affected businesses.
Police: ‘Persistent Behaviour’
PC Rebecca Risebrow, from the Spree Offender Team, said:“Harding brazenly stole from several retailers… with no thought of the impact.” She added the offences were:“not isolated… but persistent behaviour” that caused disruption and financial loss.
Crackdown on Repeat Offenders
Police said they are continuing to work with retailers to identify repeat offenders and take action against those responsible for shoplifting across the area.
https://www.cambs.police.uk/news/cambridgeshire/news/2026/april/creme-egg-thief-jailed
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