Repeat Shoplifter Jailed After Terrorising Three Stores in Havant
Mark Walkley Banged Up for Theft and Harassment
Mark Stuart Walkley, a homeless man with no fixed address, landed five months behind bars last Friday (24 June) at Portsmouth Magistrates Court. Alongside his jail term, he received a two-year Criminal Behavioural Order (CBO) banning him from several local shops.
Thefts and Threats Rock Local Stores
Walkley was charged with eight counts of theft and three of causing harassment, alarm, or distress through threatening and abusive behaviour. The incidents unfolded over May and June at three Havant stores: the One Stop on Botley Road, the Co-op on Middle Park Way, and the Asda on Purbrook Way.
Police Praise Sentence, Aim to Protect Community
Acting Inspector Hayley Burden from Havant Police welcomed the conviction. “We are pleased Walkley will now face consequences for his crimes,” she said. “We hope this sentence and Criminal Behavioural Order bring comfort to the businesses and staff targeted.”
She added, “No one should come to work feeling unsafe or harassed. We’ll continue working hard to protect the public and local businesses from such criminal behaviour.”
Support Where Possible, Prosecution When Needed
Inspector Burden stressed the balance between support and enforcement. “We refer suspects to support services to help them contribute positively to society or improve their lives. But when support fails, prosecution is our only option.”
She concluded, “We’re focused on preventing these offences and ensuring courts have all facts to deliver justice.”
