Serial shoplifter banned from Co-op stores across Essex

Summarised from 3 outlets · Updated 19 Oct, 18:57 · Archive

Joanna Reynolds was banned from every Co-op store in Essex for two years after admitting 41 thefts worth £3,500.

Joanna Reynolds of Thorpe Walk, Colchester, admitted 41 thefts between December 21, 2025, and September 29, 2026, during a nine-month spree targeting shops in and around the town. She stole wine, coffee, chocolate, meat, alcohol, detergents and perfume worth more than £3,500 in total.

On October 12, Colchester magistrates imposed a two-year criminal behaviour order banning her from every Co-op store in Essex. She was also sentenced to 48 weeks in prison, suspended for 12 months.

During her spree, Reynolds targeted multiple retailers including BP Eastwood Service Station, Budgens, Co-op stores on Old Heath Road and Tamarisk Way, Cards Direct, Esso on Bergholt Road, Spar in Braiswick and Tesco.

Essex Police Inspector Martin Willsher said he was 'pleased' Reynolds had been banned from all Co-op stores across the county for two years. He said the order should give affected businesses and the wider community 'respite', noting that his officers recognise the impact shop theft has on retail staff, customers who witness incidents and the community as a whole.

Serial shoplifter banned from Co-op stores across Essex — Image: Colchester Gazette

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How it is being reported

Serial shoplifter banned from every Co-op store in Essex after £3,500 spreeColchester shoplifter Joanna Reynolds admitted 41 thefts worth £3,500 and received a two-year ban from every Co-op store in Essex on October 12.Colchester Gazette · 19 Oct, 18:44
Serial shoplifter banned from every Co-op store in Essex after £3,500 spreeColchester shoplifter Joanna Reynolds admitted 41 thefts worth £3,500 and received a two-year ban from every Co-op store in Essex on October 12.Echo (Basildon) · 19 Oct, 18:44
Serial shoplifter banned from every Co-op store in Essex after £3,500 spreeColchester shoplifter Joanna Reynolds admitted 41 thefts worth £3,500 and received a two-year ban from every Co-op store in Essex on October 12.Brentwood Guardian · 19 Oct, 18:44

In this story: Joanna Reynolds · Colchester magistrates · Essex Police · Co-op · Colchester · Essex

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