A 'PROLIFIC offender' who stole bottles of washing detergent has been jailed.

Paul Smart, 33, of Carisbrooke Road, Newport, was arrested this morning after he was caught attempting to steal four bottles of Ariel washing detergent from a Co-op.

He appeared at the Isle of Wight Magistrates' Court where he admitted one count of theft.

The charge formed part of Operation Donkey, a police initiative to tackle crime in Newport.

A spokesperson for the Isle of Wight Police said: "This morning officers arrested a 33-year-old man from Newport on suspicion of theft from the Co-op, South Street, Newport.

"Smart appeared at the IW Magistrates' Court and was sentenced to four months' imprisonment.

"Another prolific offender off the streets thanks to Operation Donkey and your local Neighbourhood Policing Team."