Shoplifter Banned from Southampton Hotspots After String of Thefts
Harvey, a persistent offender, has been slapped with a two-year Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) after pleading guilty to multiple theft offences earlier this year. The order bans him from key areas in Southampton city centre, aiming to curb his criminal spree.
Criminal Behaviour Order: Tough Measures to Stop Repeat Offenders
The CBO is designed to tackle serious and repeat offenders like Harvey. Breaching this order could land him up to five years behind bars. Harvey is now barred from hotspots including Above Bar, High Street, London Road (up to Bellevue Road), West Quay, West Quay Retail Park, Queensway, and Bargate.
Harvey’s Crime Spree: Theft, Fraud, and Handling Stolen Goods
Back in March, Harvey admitted to shoplifting from Next and Ryman’s last December, plus attempting to nick a pedal cycle on London Road. He was sentenced to 20 weeks in jail for those offences.
- Theft from Next in WestQuay Shopping Centre on 24 December 2020
- Theft from Ryman’s on London Road on 21 December 2020
- Attempted theft of a pedal cycle on London Road on 12 December 2020
More recently, on 2 August, Harvey copped another 26 weeks after using a stolen card to fraudulently buy goods in St Marys on 30 July. He was charged with handling stolen goods and two counts of fraud by representation.
Police Crackdown: Operation Hawk Nails Persistent Offender
Southampton police credited their vigilant Operation Hawk and Neighbourhood policing teams for gathering the vital evidence to land Harvey with the CBO and jail time. Officers say this strong action sends a clear message: shoplifting won’t be tolerated.
A spokesperson said, “We want local communities and businesses to feel reassured that we’re serious about stopping theft and keeping Southampton safe for everyone.”
