A woman convicted of multiple thefts has been prohibited from wearing wigs in Sainsbury’s and Tesco stores nationwide following a string of shoplifting incidents. Rachael Cole, aged 44, was found guilty of stealing items valued at £964 from establishments in Hook and Liphook, Hampshire, over a three-week period. Among her loot was seven bags of dog food taken from a Sainsbury’s outlet. Law enforcement described her actions as audacious, noting her unsuccessful attempt to disguise herself with a wig.
Appearing in Basingstoke Magistrates Court on December 5, Cole pleaded guilty to four theft charges. She was sentenced to 36 weeks in prison, which included activating a previously suspended sentence, and received a two-year Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO).
In addition to her prison term, Cole has been barred from entering any Sainsbury’s and Tesco stores across the UK, as well as the B&M store in Bordon. The Hampshire Constabulary revealed that Cole, residing at Warren Close in Whitehill, was caught stealing goods worth £964 from Hook and Liphook premises, with one instance involving her use of a wig during the theft of dog food from Sainsbury’s in Liphook.
Under the terms of her CBO, Cole is now forbidden from wearing wigs, hairpieces, or any face-covering that conceals her identity while entering a store. She is also mandated to place all intended purchases in a basket or trolley until payment and provide proof of financial means upon request. Furthermore, she must present a receipt as proof of payment upon demand and promptly leave any shop in Hampshire or Surrey if asked, refraining from using aggressive language and avoiding returning to the same store on the same day.
East Hampshire Inspector Matt Wake emphasized the stringent conditions Cole will face post-incarceration, warning that failure to comply will result in re-arrest and court proceedings. Police efforts to combat shoplifting include identification and apprehension of offenders, as well as the implementation of CBOs to deter repeat offenses. The inspector highlighted the diverse motivations behind theft, often linked to addiction, and encouraged community reporting of anti-social behavior and business-related crimes to facilitate collaborative efforts in addressing such conduct and enforcing appropriate legal measures.