ACCRINGTON'S top cop has expressed his frustration after a serial shoplifter breached his anti-social behaviour order.
One-man crimewave Michael Aspin, who has over 100 offences to his name, was hauled before the courts after he was arrested at the Asda store off Hyndburn Road, Accrington.
Aspin, 27, of South Shore Street, Church, admitted charges of theft and assault and was issued with a drug treatment order. He was foiled while trying to steal a pair of socks from the store by security staff who had to restrain him before the police arrived.
Inspector Phil Cottam, of Accring-ton Police, said: "Mr Aspin continues to come to the attention of the police, which is something that causes me concern. My greatest concern is for the people who continue to be victims of his offences."
Aspin was issued with a three-year anti-social behaviour order in March 2001 after he notched up 115 offences over eight years, comprising 105 theft and theft-related offences, five public order offences, three drug offences and two offences against property.
He was remanded in custody for two weeks after he breached the order just four weeks after it was issued. He was warned he could face six months in prison if he breached the order again. But magistrates decided to give him one last chance last week, prompting concern from Inspector Cottam.
He said: "I was unhappy with the outcome but the court has taken that view and I have to accept that judgement. We are working with Hyndburn Council to take whatever steps we can to curb his behaviour. We have taken out a stringent anti-social behaviour order.
"I am open to any forms of punishment or rehabilitation which will help stop him re-offending. The elements of the anti social order are still there and should he come to our attention he will be brought before the courts again."
