A brazen Ashford shoplifter who blatantly ignored a court ban has been slammed back behind bars. Jessie Barton, 37, was caught red-handed stealing twice in just two days – despite a strict Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) banning him from all town shops.
Jessie Barton Flouts Court Order with Bold Theft Spree
Last August, Barton was slapped with a CBO barring him from several retail outlets, including the busy Ashford Designer Outlet. But on New Year’s Day, he stormed into the Puma store and stole clothes worth £124. Not done yet, Barton struck again the very next day at the Tommy Hilfiger shop, making off with £361 in stolen gear. CCTV footage caught him stuffing loot into a bag and fleeing both stores.
Rapid Police Response Snaps Up Repeat Offender
Kent Police acted fast. A warrant was out, and just four hours after the second theft, officers found Barton strolling down Beaver Road, still lugging five jumpers with security tags. He was arrested immediately and charged with two counts of theft plus two breaches of his CBO.
At Folkestone Magistrates’ Court on 5 January, Barton – who has no fixed address – confessed to all offences. The judge didn’t hang about, handing him a three-month prison sentence on the spot.
Police Send Strong Warning to Shoplifters
“The decision to return Barton to prison sends a clear message that repeat offending and breaches of Criminal Behaviour Orders will not be tolerated. These restrictions protect our communities, and breaking them has serious consequences,” said Police Sergeant Sarah Williams.
“Thanks to quick police work, Barton was caught within hours and still in possession of stolen goods. Justice was swift.”
