Shoplifter handed five-year community behaviour order

A shoplifter has been banned from stores in Hanley and Longton after being issued with a five-year community behaviour order (CBO) while being helped to access local support services.

Thomas McCauley Atkinson, 30, of Albemarle Road, Newcastle-under-Lyme, was issued with the order at Cannock Magistrates’ Court on Thursday (17 November).

The order prohibits Atkinson from entering TK Maxx stores in Hanley on Market Square, and in Longton, on Phoenix Way as well as from entering any retail premises in Festival Park, Festival Heights and Century Retail Park.

He has also been ordered to carry out 18 months of community service, a ten-day rehabilitation activity, a six-month drug rehabilitation requirement as well as pay a £40 fine and £78 in compensation.

Sergeant Chris Gifford, of the Stoke North Local Policing Team, said: “We have worked diligently with our partners in the community to find Atkinson and ensure he receives the appropriate help and advice from support services.

“This CBO will benefit local businesses and the communities of Stoke-on-Trent and demonstrates the force’s commitment to actioning reports of crime to ensure local businesses and people are protected.”

Julie Davies, from Partnerships Against Business Crime In Staffordshire (PABCIS), said: "Here is another example of collaborative partnership working, and support from Staffordshire Police in tackling issues affecting business and their staff.

"Crimes affecting business are often seen as victimless, but they are not. Individuals acting in an unacceptable manner has consequences and PABCIS will continue to collate information and work with Staffordshire Police, to provide evidence to support these applications making our City Centre a safer, and secure environment for all.”