Skip to content
Search
AI Powered
Latest Stories

Prolific shoplifter banned from wearing wigs and entering Gloucester city centre

Hannah Roberts

Hannah Roberts

Photo: Gloucestershire Constabulary

A prolific Gloucester shoplifter has been banned from wearing wigs after numerous attempts to disguise herself while committing thefts, Gloucestershire police said.

Hannah Roberts, aged 33 and of Nettleton Road, was handed a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) by Gloucester magistrates sitting at Cheltenham Magistrates' Court last month.


The court heard that Roberts, who had been banned by the City Safe scheme from entering any member shops, had repeatedly ignored the sanction.

When challenged by staff or security officers, Roberts had reportedly become abusive and run off with stolen items, the police said.

In an effort to get around the ban, she had also taken to wearing a variety of wigs to disguise herself. However, a distinctive tattoo on her neck meant that staff were able to easily recognise her.

Under the CBO, Roberts has been banned from entering Gloucester city centre as well as any shops participating in the Gloucester City Safe scheme.

Hannah RobertsHannah RobertsPhoto: Gloucestershire Constabulary

She is also prohibited from wearing a wig or hairpiece designed to change her appearance when entering any retail premises.

Police Constable Andy Plant, from Gloucestershire Constabulary’s Vulnerabilities Team, said: "Our retail industry is suffering because of these persistent shoplifters.

"Roberts has been the top shoplifting offender in the last few months and we now have another tool to deal with her in the shape of this Criminal Behaviour Order.

"We will continue to support our businesses in the city and its surrounds by targeting shoplifters and obtaining further orders at court where possible."

More for you

Allwyn reveals Local Retail Champions at inaugural awards event

Allwyn's Local Retail Champions 2024

Allwyn reveals Local Retail Champions at inaugural awards event

National Lottery operator, Allwyn, today announces that Coldean Convenience in Brighton and Londis Solo Convenience Store in Glasgow have been crowned National Winners at its Local Retail Champions awards event. Both retailers have been awarded £5,000 cash and a Social Value store makeover worth up to £20,000.

In a special awards ceremony at the Hilton Wembley yesterday, the two National Winners and 16 Regional Winners – who were each awarded £5,000 cash – picked up their Local Retail Champions awards which are made from recycled National Lottery Scratchcards. Additionally,102 runners-up will receive a £100 cash prize.

Keep ReadingShow less
ZYN Gold 6mg
ZYN introduces new flavour Tobacco Gold into range
ZYN introduces new flavour Tobacco Gold into range

Vape retailers embrace multi-category approach ahead of 2025 ban – PML

Independent research conducted by KAM on behalf of Philip Morris Limited (PML) has revealed the growing importance of offering a diverse range of smoke-free products, as retailers gear up for the Tobacco and Vape Bill and the impending ban on single-use vapes in 2025.

The findings highlight that a significant majority (76 per cent) of independent UK retailers feel well-informed and supported in preparation for the regulatory changes. 68 per cent agree that success will require a varied product portfolio – encompassing e-cigarettes and heat-not-burn products – rather than reliance on a single category.

Keep ReadingShow less
Open sign in a small business shop
Photo: iStock

HMRC launches new online tool to support small businesses

As Small Business Saturday approaches, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has launched a new interactive online tool and clearer guidance for small businesses.

Aimed at supporting new and existing ‘sole traders’ to better understand their responsibilities, the new interactive tool explains the records they may need to keep, taxes that may apply to their business, and includes other useful information, for example how to pay a tax bill.

Keep ReadingShow less
Retailers urged to respond to Tobacco and Vapes Bill call for evidence

Retailers urged to respond to Tobacco and Vapes Bill call for evidence

Vapers and retailers are being urged to "protect the future of harm reduction" by giving evidence to government as part of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill.

Campaign group We Vape wants vendors to answer a parliamentary call , explaining the importance of e-cigs and how the new bill might impact the numbers of people who choose to vape instead of smoke.

Keep ReadingShow less
iStock 915777580
istock image
istock image

Scottish wholesalers give cautious welcome to budget announcements

Scottish Wholesale Association (SWA) acknowledged the Scottish Government’s efforts to deliver the 2024-25 Budget during a time of significant economic challenge.

While the commitments to stability and growth are positive steps, the wholesale and food and drink sectors require more targeted action to navigate ongoing pressures and invest in their future with confidence.

Keep ReadingShow less