Man is caught in Kent Marks & Spencer despite shops ban

A prolific shop thief has been jailed after ignoring a court order banning him from entering stores in Tunbridge Wells. Tommy Robertson breached a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO), prohibiting his access to the Royal Victoria Place shopping centre, and attempted to steal clothing worth almost £1,000.

The CBO had been imposed by the courts in May 2024 and remains in place until May 2026. As well as the shopping centre, it restricts Robertson from entering other stores in Tunbridge Wells including Tesco.

On Monday, November 4, police were altered by the town’s Shop Safe radio system that Robertson had been seen in Mark and Spencer and was trying to steal multiple items of clothing. Officers attended and arrested the 59-year-old who was later charged with attempted theft and breach of a CBO.

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On Friday, November 8, Robertson, of no fixed address, appeared before Sevenoaks Magistrates’ Court and pleaded guilty. He was sentenced to 12 weeks in prison and ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £154.

Sergeant Chris Wells said: "Robertson has history of prolific offending which has impacted several businesses in Tunbridge Wells and beyond. He has demonstrated his contempt for a court order, ignoring strict measures designed to protect local stores from the scourge of shoplifting.

"This prison sentence is welcome and should act as a reminder of our determination to tackle shop thieves and ultimately also ensure that offenders face the consequences of their actions."