A notorious shoplifter, Damien O’Hare, 48, has been sentenced to three years and three months in prison after a spree of thefts and repeated violations of court orders across Crawley. O’Hare, who is of no fixed address, was charged with 26 counts of shoplifting and 22 counts of breaching a Criminal Behaviour Order, alongside one count of using insulting and threatening language.
The offences occurred between March and June 2024, with O’Hare predominantly targeting a Co-op store in Dorsten Square, Bewbush. He also struck at several other local retailers. Despite being banned from entering any Co-op store in Sussex due to an existing Criminal Behaviour Order, O’Hare flagrantly disregarded the order, often stealing from the same store multiple times in a single day. His brazen actions included openly taking goods from shelves and leaving without paying, often in full view of staff. On some occasions, when confronted, he even threatened to violently assault a female employee.
O’Hare pleaded guilty to all charges at Crawley Magistrates’ Court on 10 June and was sentenced at Lewes Crown Court on 14 August.
Detective Chief Inspector Pauline Lane commented on the case, stating: “The vast scale of Damien O’Hare’s offending shows a man with absolutely no regard for the intimidation and financial harm he was causing these businesses and their employees. Shoplifting is far from a victimless crime. Shop workers should feel comfortable going to work without having to face threats or putting themselves at risk by confronting brazen criminals."
Retail crime not only affects businesses but also has a wider impact on communities and the general public. It places a significant strain on retail and security staff, who often face threats and violence in the line of duty. Moreover, it drives up costs, which are eventually passed on to consumers.
Beyond law enforcement, there is a crucial need for support systems to help individuals struggling with social issues such as financial hardship, addiction, mental health challenges, peer pressure, coercive behaviour, and homelessness. Addressing these underlying issues is vital in preventing crime and supporting those in need within our communities.
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