A prolific shoplifter has been jailed for 18 months after breaching a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) banning him from entering Swindon town centre shops.
Martin Morgan, a 38-year-old resident of Sheppard Street, was initially subjected to the CBO by the courts in January following a series of thefts committed at various establishments, including Boots and Co-Op, within the town. The order was intended to prevent him from causing further disruption and harm to local businesses.
Regrettably, Morgan chose to disregard the court’s ruling and was found guilty of breaching the CBO on two separate occasions. In addition to these violations, he faced two additional charges of theft. Consequently, on May 12, Morgan once again stood before the courts to face the consequences of his actions.
The judicial system, recognising the severity and persistence of his offenses, handed down a 12-month custodial sentence. Moreover, his suspended sentence was activated, leading to an additional six months of custody to be served consecutively.
PC Paul Bezzant said: “Morgan has continued to commit crime within Swindon town centre despite being subject to a Criminal Behaviour Order at the start of the year.
“Clearly this was not enough of a deterrent to prevent his offending, so I am pleased that he has been given a custodial sentence by the courts.
“I know this news will be welcomed by local business owners in the town who have continued to be impacted and frustrated by Morgan’s behaviour.
“Officers continue to work closely with business owners in the town centre to ensure those who commit shoplifting offences or anti-social behaviour are identified and dealt with swiftly.”
