Davidde Martin Dale, a 47-year-old man from Dower Road in Torquay, Devon, has admitted to 18 counts of theft after stealing more than £7,500 worth of items from local shops. He pleaded guilty to the charges at Exeter Magistrates Court on 5 March 2026.
Between 1 January and 3 March 2026, Dale targeted businesses across Torquay, Paignton, Teignmouth, and Totnes. He specifically took alcohol and laundry products that had a total value of £7,663.15.
According to Devon & Cornwall Police, Sergeant Sharon Unsworth said the man was stealing the items to sell them on rather than because he was struggling to feed himself. The conviction follows work by the local neighbourhood team to address business crime in the area.
Dale has been kept in custody since his court appearance and is now awaiting his sentence. He is due to appear at Plymouth Crown Court on 2 April 2026.
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