Prolific Lincoln shoplifter has been jailed

A prolific shoplifter has been jailed after committing multiple theft offences and repeatedly breaching a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO).

Tanita Burton, 35, of no fixed address, has been sentenced to 36 weeks’ imprisonment after appearing at Lincoln Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday 5 May, where she admitted nine shop thefts and 15 breaches of a CBO committed during March.

The original CBO was issued on 18 December 2024, prohibiting Burton from entering any retail premises in the City of Lincoln for a period of three years, with the exception of Tesco on Wragby Road and Co‑op Pharmacy on Monks Road.

Further amendments were made to the order on 20 November 2025, extending restrictions to retail premises in Gainsborough, with exceptions only for Morrisons on Heapham Road and Co‑op Pharmacy on Market Street. The order also required Burton to make staff aware of her presence when entering Morrisons.

Sergeant Steven Parker, from the Lincoln City Neighbourhood Policing Team, said:

Criminal Behaviour Orders are an important tool in protecting our communities from persistent anti‑social behaviour. They set clear boundaries around what is expected, giving residents reassurance while also providing individuals with a structured opportunity to change their behaviour and avoid further harm.

We will continue to pursue enforcement through the courts where necessary, with a clear focus on protecting our communities and supporting local businesses.

In addition to the custodial sentence, Burton was also ordered to pay £907.18 in compensation.