Nottingham Police Crack Down on Persistent Beggars with Jail Sentences
Three men caught breaching Criminal Behaviour Orders (CBOs) aimed at curbing persistent begging and theft have been locked up following raids by Nottingham’s Operation Compass team.
Brealey Busted for Flouting Begging Ban
Christopher Brealey, 55, who has no fixed address, was slapped with a CBO in March 2023 banning him from Nottingham city centre except designated areas for accessing support services. Despite the order, officers spotted him begging on Milton Street on April 4. He was arrested and promptly given a two-month jail sentence at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court the next day after pleading guilty to breaching the order.
Frankie Smart Nabbed with Stolen Goods
On the same day, 64-year-old Frankie Smart of Grove Avenue, Arboretum, was caught by Operation Compass cops with stolen items on Thurland Street. Already under a CBO, Smart was charged with two counts of theft and breaching the order. He pleaded guilty and was remanded in custody pending sentencing.
John Sallis Locked Up for Breaking Begging Restrictions
The crackdown continued on April 5 when 36-year-old John Sallis, also with no fixed address, was arrested on Wheeler Gate for breaking his CBO, which restricts his presence in Nottingham city centre. He was handed a hefty 24-week custodial sentence after pleading guilty.
Sergeant Praises Team’s Relentless Work
“My team have worked relentlessly to secure these CBOs for three prolific offenders. These orders are crucial in tackling serious antisocial behaviour,” said Sergeant Jono Pothecary of Operation Compass.
“The terms are clear—breach a CBO and you will go to prison. Our officers did well to catch these breaches and bring offenders to justice. These orders don’t block access to support services; they aim to help break the cycle of offending. Enforcement here was necessary and proportionate.”
“Nottinghamshire Police is committed to reducing antisocial behaviour, and I hope this sends a message that we are taking firm action.”
