Teenager sentenced for burglaries at St Austell businesses

Series of commercial burglaries in St Austell

According to an article published by Cornwalllive on 16 April 2026, a 17-year-old boy from St Austell has been sentenced to six months in a Young Offenders' Institution following a series of offences committed across the county.

Cornwalllive reports that the teenager targeted several commercial premises. Police confirmed a burglary occurred at the Co-op in Bugle on 17 February, followed by a burglary at the Tesco Express on Pentewan Road, St Austell, on 30 March. During these incidents, the individual gained access to staff-only areas to steal items. Additionally, the youth was sentenced for a theft at a Sports Direct store on 9 April, where he stole trainers while in possession of a knife.

The St Austell Police neighbourhood team noted that these incidents were distressing for staff members, who provided CCTV and statements to support the conviction. The teenager appeared at Cornwall Magistrates' Court on 13 April to receive his sentence.

Business owners are encouraged to restrict access to staff-only areas and ensure security systems are regularly monitored to protect property and personnel.

Source : Cornwalllive