Two charged after Ipswich and Norwich shoplifting spree uncovered in A11 stop

Why it matters: The case resulted in one defendant being sentenced to eight months in prison within days of arrest, while the second remains in custody awaiting further court proceedings.

The details: Gaga Rtveladze, 28, of Beehive Lane, Ilford, Greater London, and Beka Abromaladze were stopped by Suffolk Constabulary's West Sentinel Team on Wednesday, 5 November at the Fiveways Junction on the A11.

• During a search of the vehicle, officers found suspected stolen items, including electrical goods concealed within foil-lined gift bags.
• The pair were arrested and charged with offences relating to suspected thefts from stores in Ipswich on 3 October and Norwich on 5 November.
• Rtveladze was charged with theft from a shop, handling stolen goods, going equipped to steal, driving otherwise than in accordance with a driving licence, driving a motor vehicle without third party insurance and use of a false instrument with intent it be accepted as genuine.
• Abromaladze was charged with handling stolen goods and going equipped to steal.

The bottom line: Both appeared at Ipswich Magistrates' Court on Friday, 7 November. Abromaladze pleaded guilty to the offences and was sentenced to eight months' imprisonment. Rtveladze was remanded in custody to next appear at Ipswich Magistrates' Court on 13 November.