Shoplifter banned from Swale and Medway stores for five years
Repeat Offender Caught Red-Handed
Lewis O’Brien, 34, from High Street, Chatham, has finally been given the boot after a spree of thefts across Swale and Medway. Over just 12 days in December 2024, he swiped over £400 worth of goods including food, booze, children’s toys, and beauty products from shops in Rochester, Sittingbourne, and Queenborough.
Arrest and Court Clampdown
Police arrested O’Brien in Maidstone on 21 December 2024. He faced charges for one burglary and seven thefts. At Sevenoaks Magistrates’ Court, he pleaded guilty and was hit with:
- An 18-month community order
- £250 compensation payment
- A strict five-year Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO)
Five-Year Shop Ban Hits Major Chains
Under the CBO, O’Brien is banned from entering a list of major stores, including:
- Boots
- Co-op
- Tesco
- Morrisons
- B&Q
- Asda
- B&M
- Sainsbury’s
For any other shops, O’Brien must carry no bags, have means to pay, and leave immediately if told to by staff.
Police Issue Stark Warning
Police Sergeant Daniel Bartlett branded O’Brien “one of the county’s most active shoplifters,” with a string of arrests behind him. He said:
“His behaviour has clearly caused distress to shop workers and has had a detrimental effect on the local community. O’Brien is now the subject of a very strict court order, and officers in Swale and Medway will be alert for any breaches in the next five years.”
“Store workers are also aware of the restrictions and will call us immediately if he enters their premises. If O’Brien fails to address his appalling behaviour, he will be swiftly brought back to court—and very likely sent to prison.”
Retailers on High Alert
Shops and staff across Swale and Medway are urged to stay vigilant and report any breaches. Police promise quick action to protect both businesses and communities amid rising retail crime and growing concerns over shopworker safety.
