Shop thief behind bars - less than a week after his crimes

A thief has been jailed after stealing from businesses in York - within days of his crimes.

Daniel Heaney, 29, of Hull Road, York, was spotted by CCTV operators breaking into Lucky Days cafe and Five Guys restaurant on Low Petergate in York in the early hours of Friday 15 November 2024.

North Yorkshire Police officers attended the scene within minutes, and after a short pursuit through the city, he was caught, arrested, and stolen property recovered.

Previously, on 7 October 2024, Heaney threw a brick through the window of the Angel on the Green on Bishopthorpe Road and stole a till. He was linked to this incident through forensic evidence.

He also entered Spar on Lowther Street on 7 October, and stole washing powder. On trying to leave, he failed to read the 'pull' sign on the door, and accused staff of locking him in. He then kicked the glass door, smashing it, before realising he could just pull the handle to open it.

Heaney was charged with three counts of burglary, as well as criminal damage and shop theft for the Lowther Street incident.

He pleaded guilty, but refused to leave his cell for sentencing at York Magistrates Court yesterday, and was sentenced in his absence.

He was told the offences were so serious, only a custodial sentence could be justified - and was jailed for 28 weeks.

PC John Armstrong, of North Yorkshire Police, said: "We know the impact that retail crime has on shops and restaurants. Businesses support our city centre in York, by providing employment and attracting customers. Offences against them not only affects people's finances and livelihoods, it also leaves staff in fear of crime and violence.

"The message is clear - criminals who target retailers in York face a robust police response, a prompt and effective investigation into their crimes - and could end up behind bars for a significant length of time."