North Belfast Man Banned From Supermarkets Following Tesco Theft Charges

A 43-year-old North Belfast man has been ordered to stay away from every supermarket and shopping centre in the city following a series of alleged thefts. Jackie Johnson, a resident of Parkend Street, appeared in the High Court facing 30 counts of theft and one attempted theft involving several Tesco branches across Belfast.

The court heard that the alleged offences took place over an eight-month period between January and September of last year. Prosecutors stated that security staff identified Johnson through CCTV footage at various locations, including stores on York Street, Antrim Road, Royal Avenue, and Ballygomartin Road. The items taken included food, alcohol, sweets, and other groceries, with the total value of the stolen goods reaching £3,464.49.

During the hearing, Mr Justice McAlinden emphasized the need to protect local retailers, describing the pattern of behavior as a wholesale campaign of theft. While the defense argued for bail based on time already served in custody, police expressed concerns regarding the risk of further offending.

Ultimately, Johnson was granted bail under strict conditions. In addition to being barred from all shopping centres and supermarkets in the Greater Belfast area, he must report to the police three times a week. The judge noted that the responsibility for household shopping will now fall entirely on Johnson's partner while these legal proceedings continue.