Swansea Neighbourhood Policing Team secure sixth Criminal Behaviour Order in two years

A further Criminal Behaviour Order has been secured as part of ongoing work to address repeat retail crime in Swansea city centre and reduce the impact of persistent offenders on local businesses and the wider community. 

The order was granted against 46-year-old James Brittain, from Swansea city centre, following a series of retail theft offences committed across the city centre. It places clear and enforceable conditions on his behaviour, including restrictions on entering specified retail premises, with the aim of preventing further offending.

The application was supported by detailed evidence gathered through close partnership working with local retailers, and local authority CCTV, ensuring a robust case was presented to the court. 

City Neighbourhood Inspector Andrew Hedley said: 

“Tackling prolific offenders is a priority for the Swansea Neighbourhood Policing Team. Securing this sixth Criminal Behaviour Order in two years for retail crime reflects the proactive and evidence‑led work of officers who are focused on those causing the greatest harm through repeat offending.

“Alongside targeted enforcement and highly visible policing, this work has contributed to a 14% reduction in shop thefts in the city centre.

“We will continue to focus our efforts and maintain our determination to protect local businesses and disrupt persistent retail crime.” 

Swansea Business Crime Reduction Manager Steve Gallagher said:

“The successful securing of another Criminal Behaviour Order for retail theft is a welcome and important step for businesses in Swansea city centre.

“Persistent retail crime has a significant impact on retailers, their staff, and the overall confidence of the city centre, and this action shows that repeat offending is being tackled effectively.

“Through strong partnership working with South Wales Police, we are seeing meaningful enforcement that helps deter further offences, reduce financial losses, and improve the day‑to‑day safety of those working and trading in the city.

“This outcome sends a clear message that retail crime will not be tolerated in Swansea and demonstrates the real benefits of collaborative action in protecting our businesses and supporting a thriving city centre.”