Prolific shoplifter jailed and barred from Leeds stores after crime spree
A prolific shoplifter has been jailed and banned from several stores after a spate of thefts in Leeds.
Thomas Collett, aged 29, was sentenced to three years in prison at Leeds Crown Court on Tuesday after pleading guilty to 19 counts of theft from a shop.
He also pleaded guilty to two counts of possession of a bladed article and assault of an emergency worker.
In addition to the jail sentence, Collett, of no fixed abode, was handed a four-year Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO), which prohibits him from entering any Tesco or Co-op stores in the Leeds Metropolitan area.
He is also banned from entering The Spring Retail Park and to remain in any retail premises within Leeds Metropolitan area when asked to leave to a member of staff.
PC Carl Wilson of the Leeds East Neighbourhood Policing Team stated that the CBO is intended to impose long-term restrictions on Collett to prevent him from reverting to his previous criminal behavior after his release.
“Although the police play a key role in enforcing this CBO, we also rely on retailers and members of the public to report any potential breaches,” he said.
“The conditions of the order, including the exclusion zone, can also be amended by the courts should any new information arise relating to criminal or anti‑social behaviour.
“We recognise the impact that retail crime has on businesses - both in terms of financial loss and the safety of staff. I hope that those working in the retail sector are reassured by the action that has been taken.”