Kent’s Shoplifting Menace Banned from ALL Stores for Five Years
Joseph Daniels, a notorious shoplifter, has been slapped with a sweeping five-year ban from stores across Kent. The 38-year-old faces jail if he breaks the ban after a spree of thefts in Maidstone and surrounding towns.
Chocolate, Meat & Mayhem: The Crimes
Daniels kicked off his spree on 18 September 2023, nicking two boxes of chocolate from a 1 Express on Tonbridge Road, Maidstone. After being arrested, he was told to steer clear of all Maidstone shops.
But he ignored the warning. On 10 October, Daniels struck again, raiding a Spar in Staplehurst and swiping meat and other items.
Court Hits Daniels with Tough Punishment
He was arrested on 17 October for two counts of shoplifting and appeared at Medway Magistrates’ Court the following day. Daniels pleaded guilty and was hit with an 18-week jail sentence – but it’s suspended for 12 months.
He must pay £120 in compensation and is subject to a strict Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO). The order bans him from Tesco and Co-Op stores anywhere in Kent and forces him to leave any Kent store if asked. The ban applies county-wide for five years.
Police Crack Down on Repeat Offenders
Sergeant Daniel Bartlett said: “Daniels has a long history of repeat offending. This CBO puts tough restrictions on his movements. Shoplifting hurts businesses and pushes prices up for honest customers. Our officers work closely with partners and security staff to catch and stop prolific criminals fast.”
