A prolific shoplifter has been banned from virtually every major supermarket and retail chain across Kent after years of persistent offending.
&w=1024&h=367&scale=both&mode=max)
Tyler Smith, 24, of no fixed address, was handed a sweeping Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) at Maidstone Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, October 15, 2025. The CBO is set to remain in force for the next five years and comes as the culmination of two years of investigation and monitoring by local officers. The comprehensive order places severe restrictions on Smith’s movements and activities within the county’s retail sector.
Key Restrictions of the CBO:
- Retail Ban: Smith is forbidden from entering any Co-Op, ASDA, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons, Boots, Iceland, Poundland, McColl’s, Footlocker, New Look, and Savers located anywhere within Kent.
- Specific Exclusions: He is also banned from the Pentagon Shopping Centre in Chatham, Chatham High Street, and the BP garage on Maidstone Road, Chatham.
- Bag Prohibition: He is forbidden to enter any retail premises with a bag.
- Immediate Compliance: Smith must immediately leave any shop at the request of staff.
Police officials involved in the investigation welcomed the CBO, stating that it offers retailers and residents a significant safeguard against the offender’s long-running spree of shoplifting.
Police Constable Matthew Hoffmeister said:
‘Smith is a well-known to our patrols and his persistence in continuing to offend has led to this CBO. Though the conditions are entirely appropriate if retailers are to be protected. We hope this order will finally persuade him to amend his ways. If not, and he breaks the imposed conditions, the order means he could end up behind bars for a long time.’