Colchester shoplifter banned from all Essex Co-op stores
Joanna Reynolds faces suspended jail term for thefts totalling £3,560
Last updated 19th Oct 2026
A prolific shoplifter from Colchester has been banned from entering any Co-op stores in Essex following a series of thefts.
Joanna Reynolds admitted to stealing goods worth at least £3,560, including wine, coffee, chocolate, steak, and perfume, on 41 occasions from 21st December 2025 to 29th September 2026.
Reynolds targeted several shops in Colchester, such as the BP Eastwood Service Station, Budgens, Co-op stores, Cards Direct, Esso, Spar, and Tesco.
City magistrates issued a two-year criminal behaviour order on 12th October, preventing Reynolds from entering Co-op stores in Essex.
Reynolds received a 48-week jail term, suspended for 12 months.
Neighbourhood policing inspector Martin Willsher says:
“My officers recognise the impact that shop theft has, not only on retail staff and customers who witness such incidents but on the community as a whole.
“I am pleased Reynolds has been banned from all Co-op stores across the county for two years.
“And I hope this, combined with a suspended custodial sentence, will act as a significant deterrent and give her a chance to change her offending behaviour while providing respite to the businesses and communities affected by it.
“Colchester Neighbourhood Policing Team will do all we can to support businesses and help them to prevent shop theft, while also ensuring criminal behaviour orders are complied with. When they are not, we will always seek to put offenders back before the courts.”