A prolific shoplifter operating across Weymouth and Dorchester has been handed a three-year Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) following sustained efforts by local police teams to curb repeat offending and protect businesses.
Lauren Weeks, 37, of Dorchester, was made subject to the order at Poole Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday 7 April 2026. The ruling follows extensive work by Neighbourhood Policing Teams (NPTs) in both towns, who have been dealing with a pattern of persistent shoplifting targeting local retailers.
The newly imposed CBO places strict limitations on Weeks’ movements and behaviour. She is banned from entering both Weymouth and Dorchester town centres, except when attending pre-arranged appointments. In addition, she is prohibited from contacting six named individuals, either directly or indirectly, and must not consume alcohol or be intoxicated in public spaces, aside from within licensed premises. The order also prevents her from entering any premises from which she has previously been formally banned.
Alongside the CBO, Weeks received a custodial sentence of 16 weeks in prison for offences including theft and assault. The combined measures are intended not only as punishment but as a deterrent against further offending, which police say has had a significant impact on local businesses.
Police Constable Mike Golder of the Weymouth NPT highlighted the importance of the outcome, describing Weeks as a “persistent shoplifter” who had repeatedly targeted shops in both towns. He emphasised that securing the three-year order was the result of sustained and coordinated efforts by officers working across the two communities.
Golder also reiterated the police’s ongoing commitment to tackling crime at a local level. “We will continue to take proactive action to prevent and deter crime and protect our communities and local businesses from such offenders,” he said.
Authorities are now urging members of the public to remain vigilant. Any suspected breaches of the CBO should be reported to the police so that swift action can be taken. Breaching a Criminal Behaviour Order is a criminal offence and can result in further prosecution.
The case underscores the growing use of targeted legal measures like CBOs to address repeat offending and safeguard high streets, particularly in areas where businesses have faced ongoing disruption from theft and anti-social behaviour.
