Between August 29 and December 29, 2022, James Purnell entered Waitrose on the High Street three times and stole alcohol, electronic toothbrushes, and food products worth more than £1,500. He also went to the supermarket twice more during the same time period, but left empty-handed when confronted by a member of staff. Croydon Magistrates’ Court issued Purnell with a Criminal Behaviour Order on November 12, 2020. The order barred him from entering any Waitrose or Little Waitrose store in Greater London, Surrey, Sussex, or Kent for five years. He was apprehended in London on Thursday, January 5, 2023. Purnell, of Oakfield Road in Penge, was later charged with three counts of theft and five counts of violating a Criminal Behaviour Order. On Monday, January 9, the 39-year-old was remanded in custody and appeared before Medway Magistrates’ Court. He pleaded guilty to the indictments and was sentenced to one year in prison. ‘Purnell is a prolific offender who completely disregarded the Criminal Behaviour Order restrictions imposed by the court,’ said investigating officer PC Dan Lovelock. ‘His crimes have a significant impact on local businesses, and it is entirely appropriate that his dishonourable behaviour has resulted in a prison sentence.’
