Repeat Offender Banned After Multi-Shop Theft Spree in Folkestone
Tipton Caught Stealing Across Town
Curtis Tipton, 53 and of no fixed address, struck again in Folkestone between 3 and 10 January 2024. He swiped alcohol, luxury goods, and household items from multiple supermarkets and grocery stores across the town.
Swift Police Action Leads to Arrest
Folkestone’s Victim Based Crime Team launched a rapid investigation, arresting Tipton on 11 January. He faced four counts of theft at Folkestone Magistrates’ Court on 17 January. Tipton pleaded guilty to all charges.
Prison and Criminal Behaviour Order Hit
The court handed Tipton a 14-week prison sentence. Plus, thanks to efforts by Kent Police’s Anti-Social Behaviour Team and Folkestone’s Community Safety Unit, he’s now slapped with a two-year Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO).
- The CBO bans Tipton from entering six different shops.
- He must leave any shop immediately if staff ask him to.
Police Send Strong Message to Shoplifters
Police Sergeant Daniel Bartlett from Kent Police’s Strategic Prevention Command said: “The actions of repeat offenders such as Tipton can have a devastating impact on businesses. We take all reports of shoplifting seriously.”
“I hope this custodial sentence and court order reassure traders that we will take robust action whenever appropriate. We are determined to bring shoplifters to justice. I urge the public to keep reporting incidents, either online or by calling 999 if a crime is in progress.”
