UK – Gloucester’s city center has been buzzing with talk about 33-year-old Hannah Roberts, who recently became the focal point of an unusual series of shoplifting incidents. Roberts reportedly tried to avoid detection by wearing a variety of headpieces, including wigs, as she attempted to evade restrictions set by local businesses.
Roberts had already been banned from entering stores within the City Safe Scheme, a local initiative designed to protect retailers from repeat offenders. Despite these bans, Roberts continued to defy orders, frequently ignoring the restrictions in place. Witnesses described how, on several occasions, store staff and security personnel confronted her amid her alleged shoplifting. When challenged, she often responded aggressively, using verbal abuse before fleeing with stolen goods in tow.
To bypass her restrictions, Roberts attempted to disguise herself with various wigs, believing they would help her avoid recognition. However, her distinctive neck tattoo proved to be her undoing, making it easier for authorities and shop staff to identify her.
This week, Roberts faced a decisive ruling at Gloucestershire Magistrates’ Court. The court issued a Criminal Behaviour Order specifically prohibiting her from wearing wigs or any other head coverings designed to alter her appearance while in retail settings. Gloucestershire Police Constable Andy Plant commented on the impact of such persistent offenders, stating, “Our retail industry is suffering because of these persistent shoplifters. Roberts has emerged as one of the foremost offenders in recent months, and this criminal behaviour order gives us an additional tool to address her actions.”
The police force emphasized its commitment to supporting Gloucester’s businesses, with Plant pledging continued efforts to combat shoplifting and take legal action when necessary. Roberts’ case underscores a troubling trend, as shoplifting incidents across the UK have reached record highs. Last year, nearly 1,300 shoplifting incidents were reported daily, with a total of 469,788 offences recorded by police in England and Wales in the year leading up to June 2024. This figure represents a staggering 29% increase from the previous year, marking the highest level of shoplifting since records began in 2003, according to the Office for National Statistics.
With tougher measures now in place, law enforcement and the judicial system aim to help communities combat retail theft and restore security in local shopping areas. Roberts’ case serves as a stark reminder of the serious impact shoplifting has on communities and businesses, highlighting the urgent need for continued vigilance and effective penalties for offenders.
By Olamilekan Botti
