TWO police officers went undercover to catch a prolific thief who stole hundreds of pounds worth of goods in just six weeks.

Daniel Teelan has 79 convictions dating back to 1991 and was caught red handed stealing from the BP garage in Wickford earlier this week after shoplifting from the garage three days in a row.

Teelan, of Henderson Gardens, Wickford, was sentenced to a year in prison when he appeared at Basildon Magistrates’ Court.

The Echo can reveal PC Kevin Bingham and PC Kirsty Palombella, from Basildon’s retail crime team, staked out the petrol station and caught the thief as he tried to steal washing powder. Sgt Steve Robson, who leads the Retail Crime Team, said: “We are extremely pleased the court have taken a strong stance on Mr Teelan’s offending.

“The 12-month sentence reflects how seriously they have taken his criminal activity.

“Mr Teelan is a prolific criminal who has been causing problems for businesses across the district for a number of years.

“While officers are dealing with habitual stealing they are being taken away from other pressing priorities.

“I am absolutely delighted the diligence of my officers has now paid off.”

The court heard career criminal Teelan, 40, stole hundreds of pounds of stock from shops across Basildon, including Next, the BP garage in Cranfield Park Road, Wickford, the Co-op in Nevendon Road, Wickford, and Sports Direct, in just six weeks.

Teelan was sentenced to 12 months in prison for seven counts of shoplifting committed between March 16 and April 26.

Anyone with information about people committing shoplifting offences can contact Basildon retail crime unit on 101.

Alternatively, leave information anonymously with Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.