A prolific shoplifter has been jailed after he punched and kicked a corner shop staff member to the ground.

Jack Wiley attacked an employee at the Co-op in Church Road, Murston after he was caught stealing alcohol and food.

The 28-year-old entered the premises at about 3pm on Monday, before walking out with bottles of lager, wine, and a sandwich.

He was followed outside by a member of staff and when confronted, Wiley challenged the staff member to take back the stolen goods.

When the victim managed to grab the wine, Wiley started punching him repeatedly in the head.

A member of the public tried to intervene but Wiley continued to assault the worker.

He chased the employee back into the shop, dragged him to the floor before continuing to punch and kick him. Wiley later fled on foot.

Police attended the scene, cordoned off the road, and quickly found the attacker after a search in and around the area and was arrested.

Wiley, of Whiting Crescent, Faversham was charged with assault by beating and two counts of theft.

The charges included another incident on December 15 where he stole cleaning products from a Poundland in Faversham.

Wiley pleaded guilty in Medway Magistrates’ court yesterday and was immediately sentenced to six months in prison with an additional week for breaching a previous suspended sentence.

He was also ordered to pay £200 in compensation as well as £85 costs.

Inspector Barry Carr, said: “Prolific criminals like Wiley relentlessly target retailers with the sole intention of stealing high-value items to either consume or sell.

“Shoplifting is never a victimless crime and it can have a drastic effect on businesses, and there will be no let-up in our efforts to swiftly arrest and prosecute those who see stealing as part of a criminal lifestyle.”