A DRUG addict shoplifter is banned from Bradford city centre under an interim Criminal Behaviour Order that prohibits him from entering any shop carrying a bag.

The initiative, by Bradford Council and West Yorkshire Police, is part of the ongoing drive to cut crime and anti-social behaviour in the city centre and across the district.

Kevin Godfrey, who often turns nasty when challenged by store staff while committing his crimes, pleaded guilty at Bradford Crown Court to seven offences of stealing steaks, coffee, shampoo and other products, worth hundreds of pounds, from Marks & Spencer and the Co-op on several dates last month.

Godfrey, of Studley Road, Undercliffe, Bradford, had his sentence deferred until December 9 yesterday to see if he can comply with the terms of the order.

Part of it compels him to seek help with his drug and alcohol problems from the city’s ARCH organisation.

Godfrey must also obey an overnight curfew order, monitored by an electronic tag, to stay in his bedsit between 7pm and 7am for the next three months.

A police spokesman told the Telegraph & Argus: “The Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) was applied for because he is a prolific shoplifter who frequents the city centre in order to steal and fund his drug addiction.

“He often turns nasty when challenged and makes threats to staff.”

The Recorder of Bradford, Judge Roger Thomas QC, agreed to impose the order to give Godfrey the opportunity to address his offending behaviour.

It bars him from entering any retail premises with a bag or bags or being in possession of wire cutters, pliers or any article used in connection with the removal of store security tags.

He must not enter a mapped area bordered by Shipley Airedale Road, Canal Road, Well Street, Hall Ings, Princess Way, Godwin Street, Westgate, Lumb Lane, Hanover Square and Nesfield Street, except for when he attends pre-arranged appointments with his solicitor, the court or the ARCH team.

The police spokesman said: “West Yorkshire Police and Bradford District Anti-Social Behaviour Team are working in partnership with other agencies to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour across the Bradford District.

“We are pleased with the implementation of this interim Criminal Behaviour Order, which will seek protect staff from further acts of crime and violence by Godfrey.

“Hopefully, he will use the deferred sentence time wisely and engage with ARCH and other support services to address his addiction and offending behaviour.”