Man jailed after theft room practice

A man who stole over £2,000 worth of frames and equipment from a practice while under the influence of drink and drugs has been jailed for six months.

Jonathan Terence Atkins targeted Loveleen-Browes Opticians in Burry Port, Carmarthenshire, last May, but was traced when police discovered his fingerprints on a cash box. The items, which were estimated to be worth £2,333, were sold for £200, according to a report in the South Wales Evening Post.

Prosecuting, Georgina Buckley told Swansea Crown Court: ‘There was a significant amount of damage – it was in essence a ransacking.

‘The owner has built up the business over the past 12 years, and it has been hard in a small town. In addition to the items stolen, he estimates he lost a further £2,500 worth of trade. He had 18 consultation appointments booked but had to keep the shop closed for a week.