Teen admits £140k cosmetics shoplifting spree

A 17-year-old defendant confessed to stealing nearly £140,000 in cosmetics from Boots and Holland & Barrett stores across London. The thefts spanned over two years, with the youth repeatedly targeting multiple locations of both chains. The court received 19 charges in total—15 tied to Boots and four to Holland & Barrett—though the boy initially faced 56 allegations linked solely to Boots. This means 45 additional offences will be considered during sentencing.

Prosecution barrister Edward Kalber argued for the case to be transferred to crown court, stating it would provide “maximum latitude for the sentencing decision.” He highlighted the “unique circumstances and events,” emphasizing the substantial financial impact on the businesses and the repeated nature of the offences. The court heard the boy stole £137,342 worth of products from Boots between April 2024 and December 2025, as well as over £2,415 from Holland & Barrett between October 2025 and January 2025.

Sometimes I just get distracted and led by other people, and stuff like that. I do not want to be like that anymore. I just want to be with my granddad.

The teenager’s actions were reportedly shaken after his grandfather warned him of potential prison time if he continued. His mother, addressing the court, described him as “easily influenced” and revealed the family had been unaware of the extent of his thefts. She added, “My dad is showing him and hoping he will make a change.”

Sentencing was postponed until 7 May, with the boy released on bail under strict conditions. He must not enter any Boots or Holland & Barrett store in England or Wales without a family member present. Chair of the bench Jennifer Shewry noted the rarity of such cases, saying, “We do not get cases like this very often.” She also cautioned, “You need to stay out of trouble. This would only get worse. If you were to breach those conditions, you will end up in court.”

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