A prolific thief from Sheffield has been banned from two supermarkets in Gleadless after receiving a two-year Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO).

Anthony Stocks, 39, of Ironside Walk, appeared at Sheffield Magistrates’ Court on October 18, where he pleaded guilty to a string of thefts amounting to nearly £900 in stolen goods from two local stores.

Between May and July 2024, Stocks repeatedly stole items such as jars of coffee, cans of lager, and various meat and dairy products during a series of thefts.

In addition to nine counts of theft, Stocks also admitted to possessing an offensive weapon in a private place.

Under the terms of the CBO, Stocks is now prohibited from entering the Sainsbury’s Local on Gleadless Road and the Co-op on Constable Road.

Inspector Amy Mellor from Sheffield South West Neighbourhood Policing Team said Stocks’ actions were “prolific and reckless” and added that retail staff “should never have to put up with this kind of criminality in the workplace.”

“Retail crime is far from victimless and has a direct impact on the local economy and community,” said Inspector Mellor, emphasizing that the CBO would be closely monitored to ensure Stocks adheres to its restrictions.

She warned that shoplifting would not be tolerated in Gleadless or the surrounding areas and hopes the order will “act as a warning that if you do commit retail crime, we will take action, and you will be punished.”

Stocks’ CBO, secured by the Sheffield Safer Neighbourhood Services team, remains in effect until October 17, 2026, and he has also been ordered to complete 25 days of rehabilitation.

The weapon confiscated from Stocks has since been forfeited and destroyed by police.