Six offenders given Criminal Behaviour Orders and banned from areas and businesses in Hart & Rushmoor

Six prolific offenders have been banned from areas and businesses in Hart and Rushmoor after being handed Criminal Behaviour Orders (CBOs) in the past year.

CBOs, which have replaced ASBOs, are imposed by a court and can restrict where an offender goes, who they associate with, and what activities they are allowed to take part in.

Breaching the order is a criminal offence, which can lead to a prison sentence.

Of the six orders imposed in 2023, two were for the maximum period of five years, three were two-year orders and one was for 12 months.

They were granted following a number of shoplifting and theft offences in Hart and Rushmoor throughout 2023.

It means the prolific offenders have a number of restrictions imposed on them.

Typically, they have been banned from entering parts of the district, including Aldershot and Farnborough as well as certain shops and businesses in the area.

Meanwhile, some of the offenders must leave any shop or commercial premises if asked to do so by staff.

Chief Inspector Gillian Cox, District Commander for Hart and Rushmoor, said: “Our officers have been proactive and have worked with retailers to bring shoplifters and theft offenders to justice.

“I’m pleased to say that we have been successful in applying for a number of Criminal Behaviour Orders which will hopefully have a positive impact on our district.

“I know the behaviour of our offenders has impacted our local businesses, shop workers and the wider community.

“However, our officers will look at all options available to us, including CBOs, in our relentless pursuit of criminals.”