The Chief Executive of WA’s Liquor Stores Association has expressed frustration at the legal system after a serial thief allegedly targeted a bottle shop just hours after being fined for similar offending.

The 39 year old man, who is also accused of a spate of thefts across Perth over the Christmas period– is due back in court today.

The offences are too minor to justify anything other than a fine — but the case has sparked calls to change laws to better address repeat offenders.

Peter Peck says the current situation sends a terrible message.

Press PLAY to hear more on the outrage over the theft epidemic