A suspected serial shoplifter accused of assaulting supermarket employees has been charged.

Lucille Willett, of Albert Road, Southsea, Hampshire, is alleged to have stolen items seven times at supermarkets in Faversham between October 16 2022 and May 7 2024.

Tesco, Aldi and the Co-op were allegedly targeted for food, coffee and laundry products, while in two instances employees at the businesses were reportedly assaulted.

The total value of the items exceeded £500.

Each incident was investigated and, after CCTV footage was examined by officers, enquiries were undertaken to locate a suspect.

The 33-year-old was arrested on Sunday, May 12 and was later charged by investigators from the Swale Victim Based Crime Team, with seven thefts and two assaults.

She was also charged with criminal damage to property in one of the shops.

Ms Willett was remanded in custody to appear before Medway Magistrates’ Court today (May 14).