Court bans serial shoplifter from wearing wigs after string of thefts in disguise

Nov 05, 2024

A prolific shoplifter has been banned from wearing wigs — after numerous attempts to disguise herself.

Hannah Roberts, 33, used a series of hair pieces to try and beat a ban on entering any shops.

She was a handed a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) by Gloucester magistrates sitting at Cheltenham Magistrates’ Court earlier this month.

Roberts was banned by the City Safe Scheme from entering any member shops — but repeatedly ignored the sanction.

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

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.

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.”