A woman known for frequent shoplifting has been prohibited from all Tesco stores within a 60-mile radius due to her repeated thefts causing distress to staff and local businesses. Amy McCarthy, residing on Whetstone Lane in Tranmere, received a two-year Criminal Behaviour Order following her admission to stealing from Tesco stores in Claughton.
During a court hearing at Liverpool Magistrates’ Court, it was revealed that McCarthy had been repeatedly entering a Tesco store on Upton Road in Birkenhead, filling her bag with cheese and poultry products without paying on multiple occasions in a single day. She then returned later that evening to steal additional items.
McCarthy, who has a history of convictions related to vehicle interference, was sentenced on April 30 and given strict restrictions to deter further criminal activities. These restrictions include a ban from entering Birkenhead Town Centre, all Tesco stores in the Wirral area, and the Vue Cinema in Birkenhead. She is also not allowed to enter a specified exclusion zone covering key streets and shopping areas.
Additionally, the order mandates that McCarthy must not touch or attempt to enter any motor vehicle without consent and must leave any establishment immediately if requested by the staff. Inspector Nicola Hughes from Wirral Neighbourhood emphasized the impact of theft on the community, highlighting the costs passed on to consumers.
McCarthy is now barred from numerous stores within a significant radius, effectively isolating her from a large portion of the local retail network. Authorities warned that breaching the order could lead to arrest and imprisonment, underscoring the importance of Criminal Behaviour Orders in combating persistent retail crime.
Police encouraged the public to report antisocial behavior and provided various reporting channels, including 101, online services, and Crimestoppers for anonymous tips, while emphasizing the use of emergency services by dialing 999 when necessary.
