A prolific shoplifter has been banned from every Tesco store within a 60-mile radius after causing what police described as 'misery' for shop owners. Amy McCarthy, 32, received a two-year Criminal Behaviour Order at Liverpool Magistrates’ Court following her admission to two counts of theft from the supermarket chain.
The order prohibits McCarthy from entering Birkenhead Town Centre and bars her from setting foot in any Tesco store across Wirral. Additionally, she is forbidden from touching, entering, or attempting to enter any vehicle without the owner’s permission, owing to her previous offences involving interference with cars.
Wirral Neighbourhood Inspector Nicola Hughes stated: 'Theft from business is not a victimless crime as it has a huge impact on the community in many ways such as the cost being passed on to the consumer. This Order demonstrates that we will not accept this kind of behaviour as the norm, and this ban prohibits McCarthy from entering Birkenhead Town Centre and all Tesco stores in Wirral which prevents her causing further misery to businesses.'
Inspector Hughes added: 'Criminal Behaviour Orders are an effective mechanism in tackling theft, and should she breach this order then she will be arrested and could be imprisoned.'
McCarthy, from Tranmere, was subjected to the order after repeatedly targeting the Tesco on Upton Road, where she would stuff her bag with cheese and fresh poultry items. Under the conditions, she is also banned from entering Vue Cinema in Birkenhead and must leave any shop or business premises when asked to do so by staff.
The Criminal Behaviour Order is designed to curb persistent offending and protect local businesses from further losses. Breaching the order could result in arrest and imprisonment.
