Serial Thief Ignored Court Order
Jesse Barton, 37, a notorious Ashford shoplifter, has been slammed behind bars for breaking a court-imposed ban on entering town shops and supermarkets. The Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) slapped on him in August 2024 barred him from hitting major spots like Ashford Designer Outlet and the Co-op at Brookfield Court.
Busted Raiding Stores Days After Ban
Defying the CBO, Barton struck on Sunday, 5 October 2025, hitting a grocery store, then doubled back twice the following day. He made off with food, booze, and household goods. His spree didn’t stop there — he also stole £180 worth of items from the Loudon Way Co-op.
£650 Worth of Clothes Snatched Despite Restrictions
On 7 October, Barton brazenly walked into Ashford Designer Outlet’s Kimberley Way branch, banned under his court order, and swiped clothes valued at £650. Police tracked him down the same day, leading to his arrest and charges.
Swift Justice: Five Months Inside
Barton, who has no fixed address, admitted guilt to five shoplifting charges and four CBO breaches at Folkestone magistrates on 9 October. He was locked up for five months immediately.
Inspector Sarah Williams said: “Barton’s flagrant violation shows utter disrespect for the court’s orders designed to protect businesses and our community. This sentence highlights how seriously breaches of CBOs are taken. It’s a stark warning to others — break the rules, and prison awaits.”
