Notorious Shoplifter Banged Up for Assaulting Swindon Retail Workers
A relentless shoplifter who made a habit of swiping goods and attacking staff across Swindon has finally been locked up for 26 weeks.
Joshua Moss’s Crime Spree Ends Behind Bars
Joshua Moss, 31, with no fixed address, appeared at Swindon Magistrates’ Court this Monday. He pled guilty to 14 counts of shoplifting and four assaults by beating. On top of that, four more thefts were considered during sentencing.
His offending spree ran from 8 June to 1 August 2025, terrorising shops and staff in the town centre.
The court slapped Moss with a two-year Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO). This bans him from Swindon town centre and several shops where he made off with stolen goods before.
Police Praise Tough Sentencing
PC Paul Bezzant of the Swindon Central South Neighbourhood Policing Team said the sentence brings relief for frustrated communities hit by retail crime:
“Shoplifting isn’t a victimless crime. Retail staff are often assaulted, as we saw with Moss, and businesses lose out financially. This loss pushes prices up for everyone.”
He added:
“Moss is a prolific offender. I’m glad the judge gave him a custodial sentence. The new CBO will help protect the public from the ongoing harassment and distress his actions caused.”
Wiltshire Police: Zero Tolerance on Retail Crime
Wiltshire Police confirmed their commitment to cracking down on retail crime and supporting local businesses and staff affected by repeat offenders like Moss.
