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A prolific shoplifter has been banned from branches of eight high street stores for five years.
Lewis O’Brien, of High Street, Chatham, pleaded guilty to seven thefts and one charge of burglary when he appeared before Sevenoaks Magistrates’ Court.
The court heard that O’Brien targeted businesses in Rochester, Sittingbourne and Queenborough between Sunday, December 8 and Friday, December 20 last year.
He stole food, alcohol, children’s toys and beauty products valued at more than £400.
The 34-year-old was arrested in Maidstone on Saturday, December 21.
He was sentenced on Monday (February 3) and was banned from entering any branch of Boots, the Co-op, Tesco, Morrisons, B&Q, Asda, B&M or Sainsbury’s for the next five years.
If he enters another shop, he must not carry a bag, must have the means of payment on him and must leave the store immediately if requested to do so.
O’Brien was also sentenced to a community order for 18 months and must pay £250 in compensation.
Police Sergeant Daniel Bartlett said: “This thief is one of the county’s most active shoplifters and our officers have arrested him many times.
“His behaviour has clearly caused distress to shop workers and has had a detrimental effect on the local community.
“O’Brien is now the subject of a very strict court order and officers in Swale and Medway will be alert for any breaches he commits in the next five years.
“Those working at the stores he has targeted in the past are also aware of the restrictions on his conduct and will be calling us if he transgresses.
“If this happens, I can assure retailers and law abiding members of the public that he will be swiftly brought back before the court to explain his actions.
“If O’Brien fails to address his appalling behaviour, it is very likely he will be sent to prison.”