Lisa Harbun, a 31-year-old mother from Weoley Castle, committed 41 shop raids across Birmingham stores including Asda, Next, Sainsbury's, Holland and Barrett, Savers, Home Bargains, Boots, and Farmfoods, stealing over £5,000 worth of goods during a year-long spree. She spat at staff and violently resisted arrest, dragging a police officer alongside her car with her screaming child in the back seat.
Convictions and Sentence
Harbun was convicted of 39 shoplifting charges, two assault counts, and breaching a suspended sentence. Despite her prolific offending, she was spared immediate jail at Birmingham Crown Court on July 16, 2026, due to her pregnancy and recent engagement with drug addiction services.
Judge Stacy Newnham-Payne stated: "This is serious offending behaviour... but immediate custody will have a harmful impact on others, particularly your children and your unborn baby." Harbun received an 18-month suspended sentence with drug rehabilitation requirements and was banned from shops in Selly Oak and Harborne.
Impact on Businesses
The court heard that Harbun's crime spree was fuelled by drug addiction following domestic abuse. Managers at Next reported she had caused £10,000 in damage and £27,000 in lost profits, describing her behaviour as "escalating with no end in sight."
The judge warned: "This is possibly your final chance. Don't make me regret giving you this opportunity Ms Harbun."
