James Brittain (Image: South Wales Police)
Last Updated: 1 minute ago
A persistent shoplifter has been handed a criminal behaviour order as part of a sustained police drive to tackle repeat retail crime across Swansea city centre.
The order
James Brittain, 46, from Swansea city centre, was made subject to the order following a string of theft offences targeting shops in the area. The order imposes specific conditions on his behaviour, including bans from entering named retail premises, with the aim of stopping further offending.
A growing track record
The action against Brittain marks the sixth criminal behaviour order secured by the Swansea Neighbourhood Policing Team in the space of two years, all linked to retail crime. South Wales Police said the application was backed by evidence compiled through close work with local retailers and local authority CCTV.
The force said the broader enforcement effort has contributed to a 14% fall in shop thefts in the city centre.
What police say
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.”
Business response
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.”
