A shameless thief caught on video stealing a shop charity box - by BURNING through its security cord - has been jaied.
Footage shows Sean Clamp, 29, set fire to the cord, casually lighting a flame as he pretends to be interested in buying vape products at Electro Vapors on Stanley Road in Bootle on Tuesday, February 19.
Smoke could be seen drifting from the cord, which the thief attempts to wave away, worried his ruse could be figured out.
He eventually left, with the full and heavy charity box containing money for Merseyside Dogs Trust in Huyton concealed in his coat.
Store manager Mike Duffy passed over the footage to the ECHO in an effort to catch the culprit.
And the law has now caught up with Clamp from Bank Road in Bootle who was arrested on suspicion of theft and possession of heroin.
Appearing at South Sefton Magistrates Court last week, he was sentenced to four weeks imprisonment and asked to pay compensation.
Merseyside Police Sergeant Jenni Bowman said: "We're pleased to see that Clamp has been identified and dealt with by the courts.
"Stealing from anyone is unacceptable, but to take from a charity is utterly contemptible and I’m sure the community will share our outrage.
"Keep coming forward with information and we will keep taking positive action."
Anyone with information on suspected theft is asked to contact the social media desk @MerPolCC, call 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
