Prolific South Devon shoplifter convicted after admitting booze thefts

A prolific shoplifter who stole booze and other items valued at more than £7,500 has admitted 18 theft offences at court.

Davidde Martin Dale aged 47, of Dower Road, Torquay was charged with the offences on 4 March and appeared at Exeter Magistrates Court on 5 March.

He stole alcohol and laundry products in shops across Torquay, Paignton, Teignmouth and Totnes between 1 January and 3 March this year. The total value of items stolen was £7663.15.

After admitting the thefts at court he was remanded in custody. His sentencing hearing is due to take place on 2 April 2026 at Plymouth Crown Court.  

Sergeant Sharon Unsworth, of the Torquay neighbourhood police team, said: “We are satisfied that this prolific shoplifter has been convicted in connection with a large number of retail thefts. He was stealing alcohol to sell on and was not someone who was struggling to feed himself, for example. There is always help available, such as local food banks, for those in genuine need.

“Theft and retail losses can have a very negative effect on businesses and shoplifters can be intimidating towards shop staff. Local police teams work with retailers to improve security measures to prevent crime, as well as catching offenders and bringing them to justice.”

Retailers in Torbay can take advantage of the UK Partners Against Crime system (UKPAC) by signing up to the online portal to share information.  

The UKPAC system is available as a smartphone app, that enables businesses to easily report crimes such as shoplifting and share intelligence, empowering communities to work together against persistent and repeat offenders.

Police can then access this information to build stronger evidence files, increasing the chances of successful prosecutions and reducing crime on the high street. To find out more please visit uk-pac.com