Stockport officers using behaviour Criminal Behaviour Orders to tackle shoplifting and ASB
Stockport neighbourhood officers are using Criminal Behaviour Orders (CBOs) to combat shoplifting and anti-social behaviour by restricting repeat offenders from entering specific areas or stores. Twelve active CBOs are currently in place, with six resulting from Operation Rimini. Arrests for shoplifting in Stockport have risen by nearly 50% over the past year.
Stockport police have issued 12 Criminal Behaviour Orders targeting repeat shoplifters across the town centre, with six resulting from the monthly Operation Rimini crackdowns.
The orders ban persistent offenders from entering specific stores and shopping areas, including major retailers like Co-op, Tesco, Greggs and Sainsbury’s. Chief Inspector Clare Ryle said the initiative addresses business and public frustration over routine shoplifting that drives up costs for everyone.
“We are tackling shoplifting right across Stockport and taking the necessary action,” Ryle stated. “Working closely with local businesses we have been able to reduce shoplifting using Criminal Behaviour Orders that restrict offenders from entering a designated area. This has been an effective tool to prevent further crime.”
Among those subject to orders, Kelsey Atwell faces the most extensive restrictions - banned from 17 different stores and Stockport town centre entirely until April 2027. Mark Swindells cannot enter any Co-op, Greggs or Tesco branch throughout Greater Manchester until March 2027.
Chief Superintendent John-Paul Ruffle emphasized the orders’ deterrent effect, noting breaches can lead to arrest and imprisonment. The enforcement push has yielded results - Stockport shoplifting arrests increased nearly 50% over the past year while charges rose 45%.
The crackdown extends beyond current orders. Anthony John Englishby recently received a suspended sentence and ban from over 2,000 Co-op shops after admitting 10 theft counts at Tameside Magistrates’ Court, highlighting the ongoing enforcement efforts that see more than 100 shoplifters weekly brought to justice across Greater Manchester.
Source: Read original article