Prolific shoplifter who stole chocolate banned from shops for three years

Oldham Council's Community Safety Service was granted a three-year Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) following repeated offences targeting retailers in Chadderton.

Athanial Lucas (30), of no fixed address, appeared before Tameside Magistrates' Court on July 29 charged with three shoplifting offences at Londis in Chadderton. 

Lucas was sentenced to eight weeks in custody, ordered to pay £513 in compensation and made subject to a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) until July 29, 2029. 

The three-year CBO was secured by Oldham Council's Community Safety Service, in partnership with Greater Manchester Police. The application detailed 30 reported shoplifting incidents from December 2025, resulting in losses of £3,994 to local businesses. 

Lucas was brought to the attention of the Community Safety Service after retailers reported him for shoplifting up to three incidents a day. In each offence, he stole chocolate and confectionery. 

Under the terms of the order, Lucas is banned from entering One Stop Community Shop and Tesco Express on Butler Green and Drury Convenience Store in Drury Lane, Chadderton. 

A council spokesperson said: "Athanial Lucas is a prolific shoplifter who has repeatedly targeted local businesses across Chadderton. His actions have cost hardworking retailers thousands of pounds. 

"Enough is enough. We brought this application because of his persistent offending, with 30 incidents linked to him since December 2025. This Criminal Behaviour Order gives us powers to protect businesses and take action if he ignores the restrictions placed on him. 

"Shoplifting affects business owners, employees and customers, and we will continue to use all available measures to protect our local businesses and communities." 

Anyone who breaches the conditions of a Criminal Behaviour Order faces further criminal action and could be returned to court.