Police said an 8-year-old who has stolen more than $3,000 from stores and other businesses in Hull, England, cannot be punished due to his age.

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Authorities said the young thief, who pocketed cash and merchandise during his two-week crime spree in August and September, can't be prosecuted for the crimes because he is under 10, the age of criminal responsibility, the Daily Mail reported Friday.

"Our investigations have led us to the fact that the boy who has committed these offenses is under 10 years old and therefore under the age of criminal responsibility," Detective Sgt. John Fuller said. "That is how the law works. We will be contacting all those affected and explaining how we came to this conclusion. We will still pursue accomplices and be seeking to charge them with theft."