Man banned from all Heron Foods, Iceland and Aldi stores in one part of Merseyside

Joshua Chase, 24, of no fixed address but formerly from Liscard
-Credit: (Image: Merseyside Police)


A man has been banned from entering shops in one part of Merseyside after a number of shop thefts. Joshua Chase, 24, of no fixed address but formerly from Liscard, appeared in Sefton Magistrates Court today (September 25) after he pleaded guilty to to 14 counts of theft from different shops in New Ferry and Croft Retail Park in Bebington in March and April this year.

On September 16 it was heard that Chase would fill carrier bags full of stock and leave the store without paying. On one occasion he entered Heron Foods on New Chester Road and took 13 blocks of cheese worth ÂŁ45 then left the shop.

In another incident he took goods from Iceland on New Chester Road before being confronted by an employee. He then pulled a knife out and threatened him.

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The 24-year-old also targeted Premier on the same road and stole multiple packets of bacon worth more than ÂŁ48. He returned a few days later and took bottles of whiskey worth more than ÂŁ70. He then returned the same day and stole a bottle of vodka worth ÂŁ40. In another instance he stole several packets of steak from Lidl on Oxton Road.

Chase was sentenced to 26 weeks in prison and issued with a four-year and four months banning order at Sefton Magistrates Court. Under a Criminal Behaviour Order, Chase is now banned from entering all Heron Foods store, Iceland, and Aldi store in the borough. He is also excluded from two zones in New Ferry and the Croft Retail Park until January 2029.

Neighbourhood Inspector Nicola Hughes said: “Chase would brazenly steal stock and walk out of the shop without paying for the goods. He was identified on a number of occasions of stealing large quantities of items from different stores in New Ferry and Croft Retail Park.

“He would often be aggressive and threaten staff by stating he had a knife and brandished a knife on one occasion. Theft from shops is not a victimless crime and has a huge impact on not only the business but the community as well in many ways, especially small shops trying to make an honest living.

“We hope this serves as a clear warning to others, that the force will robustly take steps to address prolific offenders, working with businesses and partners.”

Anyone with information on suspected theft or anti-social behaviour can to speak to local officers, report to Merseyside Police online, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Always call 999 if a crime is in progress.