Police are appealing for help to trace Mark Latham, a 54-year-old man who is wanted on recall to prison after being banned from touching any video doorbells, CCTV cameras, or security lighting for five years.
Background of the Case
Latham, of Lime Street, Ellesmere Port, targeted small businesses across the town, causing "considerable damage" to each of them. In 2023, he was jailed for three years and four months for the damage he caused. He was also issued a five-year criminal behaviour order (CBO) upon his release.
The CBO banned him from entering the Rossmore Business Village, Oak Street, and Water Business Park areas of Ellesmere Port. Additionally, he was ordered not to deliberately touch or tamper with any equipment used for CCTV purposes, including CCTV cameras, Ring doorbells, external or security lighting, without the owner's consent.
Police Statement
At the time of sentencing, Police Constable Lucy Hawkins of Ellesmere Port Local Policing Unit described Latham as a "persistent problem." She said: "I welcome the sentence that has been handed to him. While he is now behind bars, when he is released from prison the CBO will come into force and will help to limit his future offending. I hope that this result sends a clear message that we will not stop in detaining those who disrupt our communities and will do all we can to bring them to justice."
Current Situation
Latham is now wanted on recall back to prison following his release. Cheshire Police believe he is in the Ellesmere Port area. He is described as approximately 5ft 9in tall, of medium build, with brown hair turning grey, and green eyes.
Appeal for Information
Police are asking anyone who knows of Latham's whereabouts or sees him to contact Cheshire Police on 101 or via the website at www.cheshire.police.uk/tell-us, quoting reference number 26000422063. Alternatively, information can be given anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
