Shoplifter Jailed for Ignoring Ban in Tunbridge Wells
Tommy Robertson, 59, a notorious shop thief, has been locked up after flouting a court order banning him from Tunbridge Wells stores. The career criminal tried to nick nearly £1,000 worth of clothes from Marks & Spencer at Royal Victoria Place.
Banned But Back in Store
The Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO), slapped on Robertson in May 2024 and set to last until May 2026, barred him from entering shops including Tesco and Royal Victoria Place. Yet on 4 November, CCTV and Tunbridge Wells’ Shop Safe radio system spotted him in M&S attempting a big steal.
Police swiftly arrested Robertson for attempted theft and breaching the CBO.
Court Sends Clear Message
At Sevenoaks Magistrates’ Court on 8 November, Robertson—who has no fixed address—pleaded guilty to both charges. He got 12 weeks behind bars and must pay a £154 victim surcharge.
Sergeant Chris Wells of Kent Police said,
“Robertson has a history of prolific offending that has impacted numerous businesses in Tunbridge Wells and beyond. His disregard for a court order designed to protect local stores from shoplifting demonstrates a lack of respect for the law. This prison sentence reinforces our commitment to tackling shop theft and ensuring offenders face the consequences of their actions.”
