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Maidstone thief banned from Lidl and Co-op jailed after stealing from stores

A “prolific and unrepentant” thief who ignored a court order to steal from a Co-op and Lidl has been jailed.

Dougie Frankham was banned from entering a number of stores in Maidstone in February 2022 following several shoplifting convictions.

Dougie Frankham, 38, of Cambridge Crescent, Maidstone, has been jailed for shoplifting offences. Picture: Kent Police
Dougie Frankham, 38, of Cambridge Crescent, Maidstone, has been jailed for shoplifting offences. Picture: Kent Police

However, between April and August last year, the 38-year-old was recognised by staff at the Co-op stores in Loose Road and Northumberland Avenue, as well as the Lidl in St Peter’s Street.

Entering them was enough to breach his Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) but he also went on to steal alcohol and groceries.

On August 13, Frankham, of Cambridge Crescent, Shepway, was arrested and faced multiple charges linked to shoplifting and breaches of his CBO.

He pleaded guilty and was remanded in custody until his sentencing hearing at Maidstone Crown Court on Friday (January 10).

Lidl in St Peter's Street, Maidstone. Picture: Google
Lidl in St Peter's Street, Maidstone. Picture: Google

There he was sentenced to almost 14 months’ imprisonment.

Chief Inspector Steve Kent said: “Frankham is a prolific and unrepentant offender who appears incapable of changing his ways.

“Shoplifting is never a victimless crime and the actions of relentless thieves like him ultimately lead to law-abiding customers paying higher prices, and shop staff feeling unsafe and anxious.

“We welcome this prison sentence and remain determined to protect our local businesses and bring criminals like Frankham before the courts and ensure they are held accountable for their actions.”

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