A woman known as the “poshest thief” in the UK has stolen £12,000 worth of alcohol from Sainsbury’s but has avoided prison despite a prior theft incident. Pauline Al Said, a former Bath Spa University lecturer, gained notoriety in 2024 for stealing over £1,000 worth of high-end cookware, wine, gin, and steaks. Along with her husband, Al Said was fined £2,500 for stealing from a garden center and Marks & Spencer.
In her latest crime spree, Al Said, hailing from Southampton, stole products totaling £11,964 over nine months, predominantly expensive alcohol, to support a drug habit. She cleverly concealed the stolen items in her shopping trolleys beneath Disney dresses and dressing gowns. The serial thief targeted Sainsbury’s, making six raids to steal alcohol and meat, even going as far as reading a stolen newspaper in the store’s cafe.
Despite the significant theft amount, Al Said received an 18-month suspended prison sentence and was ordered to repay Sainsbury’s £1,800. Additionally, she is prohibited from entering the supermarket during her sentence, as the judge noted her tendency to target the chain. Judge Gary Lucie acknowledged Al Said’s intelligence and remorse, opting for a suspended sentence with the requirement to attend rehabilitation days.
Al Said, now going by the name Pauline Tusien, has embarked on a new venture offering life and career mentoring services on her website. She aims to provide support and clarity to individuals facing complex situations.