A man with a history of stealing from shops has been legally barred from entering several major retailers in a Worcestershire town.
Court Order Issued for Prolific Offender
Simon Matthews, 54, of no fixed address, was found guilty at Kidderminster Magistrates' Court of five separate counts of theft from shops. As a result, magistrates handed him a 12-month community order. More significantly, they also imposed a two-year Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO), a powerful tool designed to prevent further offending.
Specific Stores and Conditions of the Ban
The terms of the CBO explicitly forbid Matthews from entering a list of specific retail outlets in Droitwich. The banned premises include:
- Home Bargains at Roman Way Retail Park
- Marks and Spencer on Worcester Road
- Waitrose on Saltway
- BP UK on Worcester Road
- Boots in St Andrew’s Square
- Morrisons in St Andrew’s Square
- Sainsbury’s Local on Tolley Way
In an unusual but specific condition, Matthews is also prohibited from being in any retail business while wearing any form of headwear, such as a cap, hat, or balaclava. The order further states he must not cover his face by any means, including wearing non-prescription sunglasses or using his hands.
Police and Community Response
Sergeant Cathy Atkinson of the Droitwich Safer Neighbourhood Team welcomed the court's decision. She stated: "We are pleased to get this two-year CBO for Matthews whose prolific shoplifting has harmed retailers and the community here in Droitwich."
The police have urged the public to assist in enforcing the order. "Anyone who sees him breaching his order should call 101 or report it online to us so we can take action," Sgt Atkinson added.
A spokesperson for West Mercia Police confirmed the details of the sentencing and the strict conditions of the Criminal Behaviour Order, which will remain in force for 24 months.
