'Prolific' shoplifter handed Criminal Behavioural Order in Frome
The man has been banned from going in some shops, and prevented from staying in others when told to leave them
A man who's been described by police as a 'prolific shoplifter' in Frome has been handed a Criminal Behavioural Order.
Joe Steel, who's 33, has been handed the order by magistrates in Taunton after carrying out 31 thefts - including four in the same store in a single day.
If it's breached - he could face up to five years in prison.
Under the order, the man from Vallis Road is prevented from:
- Remaining on a business or retail premises, or public and private grounds, when asked to leave by staff, the owner, occupier, police, or council appointed officials
- Entering any business or retail premises from where he’s been given a verbal warning or written banning notice
- Entering or loitering outside any Marks & Spencer stores, including car parks or petrol forecourts
- Entering or loitering outside any Co-op store, including car parks or petrol forecourts
PCSO Kris Seviour, of the Neighbourhood Policing team, said: “This defendant’s offending is having a significant impact on businesses in Frome, so it’s important we use all the tools at our disposal to prevent any further offences being committed.
“If the CBO is breached then this could result in up to five years’ imprisonment.
“We’re committed to targeting the prolific and habitual offenders whose behaviour is causing misery in our local communities.”
Steel has been reported to have increased the use begging as a tactic in 2024, according to police.
Since then, officers from the Frome Neighbourhood Policing team have been working with the Anti-Social Behaviour Team to obtain the order to help stop his offending.