A shoplifter attempting to steal a pair of trainers from Nike was unaware a police officer was in the same store.

The 51-year-old woman took the shoes from the sportswear store at the Ashford Designer Outlet but was quickly tracked down by the officer, who had been carrying out enquiries at the mall.

The trainers were then recovered during the incident in August last year.

The woman, from Ashford, was later charged with and admitted theft in relation to the incident.

She appeared before Maidstone Crown Court on Friday (February 2) and was given a 12-month conditional discharge and ordered to pay £111.

Posting on X, formerly Twitter, officers said the shoplifter did not realise the policeman was in the store she stole from.

“She was quickly tracked down, the stolen goods recovered, and has now been sentenced for theft,” they posted.

“We'll continue to bring thieves to justice to protect local shops and their staff.”

Sergeant Jason Bushell added: “We understand the impact shoplifting of this kind has on local businesses and our officers are determined to bring thieves before the courts to prevent further offending.”