A SHOPLIFTER who stole from the Swindon Designer Outlet has been jailed.

Magistrates sentenced Cricklade woman Nina Austin to 20 weeks imprisonment after the 40-year-old admitted five shoplifting offences dating back to November.

Austin, of Common Hill, Cricklade, stole hundreds of pounds-worth of designer label goods. Between November 24 and Friday, January 11, she targeted luggage store Samsonite, stole women’s boots, a Puma tracksuit, Mountain Warehouse jacket and Debenhams perfume.

Defending, Mark Glendenning said his client had managed to kick addictions to drink and drugs, but had been forced to steal after experiencing money problems. Her benefits were paid into the bank account of another, who is currently serving a jail term.

“Out of desperation she’s committed these offences,” Mr Glendenning added.

Magistrates heard Austin had committed the thefts while subject to a suspended 12 week prison sentence order.

Chairman of the bench Simon Wolfensohn said: “I regret to say you have left us no alternative but to activate your suspended sentence.”

Austin was sentenced to 20 weeks imprisonment and ordered to pay £200 in costs and surcharges.

She will be tried on April 8 on a charge of assaulting an outlet centre security guard. Austin denies spitting at him.