Repeat Shoplifter Locked Up for 16 Weeks and Banned from Co-op
James Durber’s Bold Theft Spree
A 40-year-old man has been jailed for 16 weeks and slapped with a ban from all Co-op stores in Fareham after racking up a whopping £765 in stolen goods.
James Durber, a man with no fixed address, admitted to multiple thefts at Portsmouth Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 21 February. His targets included several shops, with a focus on stealing meat and household products.
Chronology of Crimes
- 12 Dec 2024: Swiped £130 of goods from Boots at Westbury Mall.
- 18 Dec 2024: Nabbed £199.60 worth of meat from Co-op, Highlands Road.
- 8 Feb 2025: Pinched £241.60 of meat from the same Co-op.
- 9 Feb 2025: Stole £127 in laundry products, again from Co-op Highlands Road.
- 16 Feb 2025: Took £67 worth of meat from Co-op on Fairfield Avenue.
Criminal Behaviour Order: Tough Measures
Alongside his prison term, Durber received a two-year Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) with strict conditions:
- Banned from all Co-op food stores in Fareham.
- Not allowed in retail premises unless he can pay upfront.
- Must leave any business immediately if asked—without causing a scene.
Breaking the order risks further arrest, prosecution, jail time, or fines.
Police Speak Out
PC Tom Pickup from the Fareham Neighbourhood Policing Team said:
“Retail staff work hard and should not have to deal with shoplifting, abuse, or anti-social behaviour while doing their jobs.”
“Durber is a repeat offender who steals large quantities of goods, causing ongoing harm to businesses in Fareham.”
“We act swiftly when shoplifting is reported, using tools like CBOs to stop repeat offences.”
“Often, shoplifting ties in with addiction issues. We work with local services to support individuals.”
Police urge the community to report business crime and anti-social behaviour to help protect local shops and workers.
