A prolific shoplifter who turned violent after being confronted has been banned from Ashton-under-Lyne town centre for two years. Steven Wrigley, 44, from Tameside, was caught stealing from the B&M store on Swan Street before assaulting two police community support officers (PCSOs) who attempted to detain him.
Swift Response by Police
Greater Manchester Police received reports that a known shoplifter was active at the B&M store. Sergeant Rob Froggatt attended the scene with PCSO Chadwick and PCSO Brockett. They reviewed CCTV footage and identified Wrigley as the suspect in the Swan Street car park. Within seconds, the PCSOs found him hiding in a nearby alleyway.
When they tried to detain him, Wrigley assaulted both PCSOs. Sergeant Froggatt then joined the scene, and Wrigley was arrested on suspicion of theft, assaulting an emergency worker, and breaching a court order. While in custody, he was further arrested in connection with an additional theft offence.
Court Outcome
Wrigley later pleaded guilty to all counts at court. He was sentenced to immediate imprisonment for four weeks and handed a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) running until June 12, 2028. The CBO prohibits him from entering Ashton-Under-Lyne town centre unless attending a pre-arranged appointment with an approved professional.
Police Comment
Sergeant Rob Froggatt, from the Ashton-Under-Lyne town centre neighbourhood team, said: "This is a great example of our swift and efficient response to a problem the community has told us about, retail theft. Within just 10 minutes of the initial report, a known prolific shoplifter was located and detained thanks to the excellent teamwork of our neighbourhood officers."
He added: "As a sergeant, it’s important for me to be hands-on and out on patrol with my team, tackling crime and supporting our communities directly. We are committed to making Ashton a safer and more welcoming place and taking offenders like this off the streets plays a key part in that. We will continue to act on the information you give us, so please keep reporting concerns to us."
