A PROLIFIC thief who stole ten bottles of spirits from a town centre shop in just two weeks has avoided jail.

Charlotte James, 22, admitted to stealing the alcohol and some meat from Tesco in Market Place, Braintree, when she appeared at Chelmsford Magistrates' Court.

James, of St Michael's Road, Braintree, was fined £370 and ordered to carry out a rehabilitation requirement.

On March 25 she stole meat and spirits worth a total of £50, while on March 28 she stole steaks worth £40.

On April 1 she stole two bottles of vodka worth £32, on April 11 she stole four bottles of vodka worth £64 and on April 12 she stole two bottles of whiskey worth £32.

Finally, on April 14 she stole two more bottles of whiskey.

All of the offences took place at Tesco in Market Place.

She must pay £200 in compensation, £85 to the CPS and £85 to victim services.