Shoplifter Busted After Flouting Ban on Supermarket Visits
Criminal Behaviour Order Ignored
Clive Tilley, 41, flagrantly breached a criminal behaviour order issued at Medway Magistrates’ Court last July. The order barred him from entering any Co-op, Sainsbury’s, or Tesco premises in the county. Yet, between April 29 and May 3 this year, Tilley defied the restrictions while committing multiple shoplifting sprees at two different stores.
£400 of Goods Stolen from Tesco and Co-op
During his spree, Tilley stole meat, sweets, alcohol, and cleaning supplies from Tesco in Sturdee Avenue and the Co-op on Canterbury Street. The stolen goods were valued at around £400. Both incidents sparked investigations, culminating in Tilley’s arrest in town centre on May 3.
No Fixed Address, But Fixed on Crime
The 41-year-old, homeless at the time, found himself charged with seven theft counts and seven breaches of his criminal behaviour order by the Medway Victim Based Crime Team. He pled guilty at his first court hearing on May 6, resulting in an immediate one-year jail sentence.
Police Warn Other Retail Offenders
Inspector Mick Hayes of the Medway Community Safety Unit said: “We’re cracking down hard on retail crime, as shown by this prolific shoplifter going to jail.”
“Our neighbourhood officers know the usual suspects and will detain anyone targeting local businesses quickly,” Hayes added.
“Those caught will face charges and, where appropriate, court proceedings to answer for their actions.”
