Two women, Caroline Beaverstock and Samantha Selway, both 35, have been convicted of multiple shoplifting offences in Bath, causing significant disruption for local retailers. The pair appeared at Bath Magistrates' Court following arrests made by neighbourhood police officers as part of ongoing efforts to combat shop thefts across the city.
Caroline Beaverstock, from Combe Park, admitted to 30 counts of shop theft occurring between April and June this year. On Tuesday, June 24, she received a 12-month conditional discharge and was issued a three-year Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO). This order bans her from entering various shops throughout Bath, with the threat of jail time should she breach the conditions.
Samantha Selway, of Loxton Road, was charged with four shop theft offences from earlier this month, along with one charge of motor vehicle theft. She appeared in court on Wednesday, June 18, and is currently on bail pending sentencing next month. She may receive a similar Criminal Behaviour Order to prevent further incidents.
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Neighbourhood Sergeant Tom Allwood-Coppin emphasized the serious impact of shoplifting on local businesses and the wider community. He assured that law enforcement is committed to addressing these offenses and encouraged the public to report any suspicious activity to help protect local shops.
In the event of an ongoing crime, call 999 immediately. For non-emergencies, contact 101 or report online via the Avon and Somerset Police website.