A serial shoplifter has been sentenced for a string of offences committed in Elm Park and will serve prison time.

Keith Sears, 44, of Beambridge Place in Basildon, Essex, received a 25-week jail sentence and criminal behavioural order (CBO) on Wednesday (August 6) for shoplifting in and around Elm Park train station.

Sears now cannot enter The Broadway, Station Parade, Elm Park Avenue and St Nicholas Avenue.

The 44-year-old was also banned from the Heathway area in Dagenham, specifically Reede Road, Parsloes Avenue and The Heathway Shopping Centre.

Inspector Mark Connolly of Havering South Safer Neighbourhood Team said: “We are committed to tackling the issues that matter most to the local community in Havering.

"This sentence will make a difference to those living and working in Elm Park," he added.

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Sears was arrested on May 24 in connection with five shoplifting offences, one attempted shoplifting offence and a public order offence.

Ray Morgon, leader of Havering Council, commended police and said he was "determined" to tackle crime.

“Working with the police, we are all determined to get those causing crime and anti-social behaviour off our streets.

“We know the local community played a big part in helping to bring this offender to justice and we want to thank them," he added.

The only time Sears can enter the banned areas is if he is in a moving form of transport, provided by Transport for London or a private hire vehicle.

Insp Connolly urged people to keep coming forward: "Both the custodial sentence and CBO passed to Keith Sears would not have been achieved without the community reporting these crimes and assisting us with the investigations.

"My teams will continue to work together with Havering Council and the CBO panel on applications which is vital in long-term problem solving and in community crime fighting.

"We are striving to make a difference and I would encourage people to report crime online," he added.

You can report crime online to www.met.police.uk or call 101.

To remain anonymous call independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 and in an emergency always call 999.