Shoplifter jailed after robbing from Essex Tesco and Co-op

Mark Ewen <i>(Image: Essex Police)</i>
Mark Ewen (Image: Essex Police)
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A prolific shoplifter has been jailed after repeatedly breaching a Criminal Behaviour Order just days after it was imposed.

Mark Ewen, 41, of no fixed abode, was handed a two-year CBO on August 10 following being convicted of multiple shop thefts.

The order banned him from entering any Co-op store in Essex and Tesco in Chelmsford.

On August 14, Ewen stole wine from a Co-op, and just four days later he was seen inside Tesco in Chelmsford.

He was arrested and charged with theft and CBO breaches.

Appearing at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court on August 19, Ewen was sentenced to one month in prison.

Chelmsford neighbourhood policing team sergeant Graham Thomas said: "The speed of Ewen’s breaches show the importance of enforcing these orders to ensure they’re understood as a deterrent.

"The consequences of breaching a CBO are made clear to everyone that receives one – he had no excuse and no option but to plead guilty."

He said: "We do all we can to make sure CBOs are a preventative tool, directing people towards the help they may need rather than solely using custodial sentences.

"With the right support, CBOs can help us prevent offences before they happen as well as ensure we have the powers we need to keep Essex safe."

Ewen’s CBO remains in effect until August 2028.

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