Banning order on persistent metal thief
A prolific metal thief from Tipton has been banned from entering South Worcestershire for five years after being handed a criminal anti social behaviour order.
Stuart Alan Jones is prohibited from entering the Worcester City, Malvern Hills and Wychavon council areas under the order which was imposed by magistrates in Worcester.
Jones, aged 35, of Victoria Road, is only allowed to enter the area if he passing through it in a vehicle on the M5. Jones has 76 convictions and has caused thousands of pounds worth of damage to homes and businesses through his activity, the court heard.
The order also bans him from being in possession when away from his home address of any metal object or objects weighing one kilogram or more unless they are being used for a legitimate purpose connected to day-to-day living.
If he breaches the order, he could be sent to prison for up to five years.
Insp Jane Francis of West Mercia Police said: "We are absolutely delighted we have been successful in applying for this Crasbo, which is believed to be the first one of its kind in West Mercia.
"Jones is a persistent offender, with 76 convictions, mainly for metal theft. He has caused untold damage to businesses and disruption to communities with his offending, showing blatant disregard for those affected."
Figures released earlier this year suggested the war on metal theft in the neighbouring district of Wyre Forest is being won with the number of raids down by more than 70 per cent.
Figures reveal thieves struck 23 times in January to March, compared with 90 during the same period last year. West Mercia Police have been working to drive down the number.
