A prolific shop thief who repeatedly ignored a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) banning him from Maidstone town centre stores has been jailed for over a year.
Repeat Offender
- Dougie Frankham, 38, of Cambridge Crescent, Maidstone, was sentenced to 14 months in prison after breaching his CBO on multiple occasions.
- The CBO, issued in February 2022 by Medway Magistrates’ Court, prohibited him from entering any shop in Maidstone except for three monitored businesses.
Crimes Committed
Between April and August 2024, Frankham targeted prohibited stores, including:
He stole items such as alcohol and groceries, often being recognised by staff despite the court order.
Arrest and Sentencing
- Frankham was arrested on 13 August 2024 and charged with multiple counts of shoplifting and CBO breaches.
- He pleaded guilty before magistrates and was remanded in custody.
- On 10 January 2025, he was sentenced to nearly 14 months’ imprisonment at Maidstone Crown Court.
Police Statement
Chief Inspector Steve Kent commented:
“Frankham is a prolific and unrepentant offender who appears incapable of changing his ways. Shoplifting is never a victimless crime, and the actions of relentless thieves like him ultimately lead to higher prices for customers and unsafe conditions for shop staff.
“We welcome this prison sentence and remain determined to protect our local businesses, bring criminals like Frankham before the courts, and ensure they are held accountable for their actions.”
Kent Police continues to work closely with businesses to combat retail crime and urges shop staff and the public to report any suspicious activity.
