Repeat Offender John Watson Hit with Two-Year Extension on Crime Ban
John Watson, 33, a drifter with no fixed address, has been slapped with a two-year extension on his Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) after repeatedly flouting its rules. Originally handed down in January 2019 for drug possession during a rural crime crackdown, Watson has breached the order four times.
Magistrates Toughen the Clampdown
Officers from the Operational Partnership Team pushed for a stricter crackdown, and magistrates in Cambridge agreed on Thursday 19 August 2021. The order now runs until August 2023, with tighter restrictions aiming to keep Watson away from trouble.
Strict Curbs on Watson’s Movements
- Watson is banned from entering a specific area in Breckland known as the B1 zone, except to visit the Splashes traveller site, Swaffham via A47.
- He must not associate with co-defendants from his original case outside their homes.
- Watson cannot enter or come within 10 metres of any farm or non-dwelling outbuildings unless he owns them or has written permission, which must be shown to police on demand.
Police Ready to Act
Inspector Matt Howes said: “These orders are aimed at tackling persistent offenders with restrictions to deter them from committing a crime. We continue to proactively target all areas of crime, including rural offences deploying preventative measures and working with our partner agencies.
“If evidence is obtained or Watson is found in breach of the order by officers, the order gives us the power to arrest him.”
With his criminal behaviour order now extended and tightened, Watson faces tougher limits or jail if he slips up again.