A prolific shoplifter from Tunbridge Wells has been banned from entering Tesco stores for the next two years, following a string of thefts, assaults, and criminal damage across the region.
Freddie Farnie, 31, of no fixed address, targeted Tesco branches on London Road and Pembury Road, as well as other local shops, between 30 August 2024 and 12 February 2025. During the same period, he also committed a theft in Faversham, assaulted a shop worker, assaulted four emergency service personnel, and caused criminal damage on three occasions at Tonbridge police station.
Arrest and Sentencing
Farnie was arrested and charged with multiple offences before appearing at Medway Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 4 April. He pleaded guilty and was handed an 18-month community order, which includes:
- 150 hours of unpaid work
- A nine-month drug rehabilitation requirement
- Compensation to victims
- £85 in court costs
Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) Issued
In addition to sentencing, the court granted a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO), which bans Farnie from:
- Entering any Tesco store
- Entering a local shop in Silverdale Road, Tunbridge Wells
- Consuming alcohol or possessing opened alcoholic containers in public places, except in licensed premises
Breaching the CBO could result in fines or imprisonment.
Police Response
Police Constable Julie Edwards welcomed the court’s decision, saying:
“Farnie is a prolific shoplifter who regularly comes to our attention and is arrested. He can also become violent, and his actions have caused considerable distress to shop workers.
He is now subject to the conditions of a strict court order, and we will be quick to attend any incidents where he is reported to have breached the restrictions. Should this happen, he is likely to find himself back before the magistrates to answer for his behaviour.”
Ongoing Enforcement
Kent Police have confirmed they will be monitoring compliance with the CBO and urge the public and retailers to report any sightings or breaches.
Anyone witnessing Farnie in violation of the order is encouraged to contact police via 101, or 999 in an emergency.
This is part of a broader effort by local authorities to crack down on repeat offenders and protect frontline retail workers from violence and abuse.
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