Woman Banned From Wearing Wigs After Using Disguise to Steal Dog Food

A woman who had been on the run from police in Whitehill, Hampshire, has been banned from wearing wigs after using them as disguises during multiple thefts, including stealing dog food.

The woman, identified as Rachael Cole, received a 36-week prison sentence—which includes activation of a previously suspended sentence—and a two-year Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) after pleading guilty to four counts of theft.

According to authorities, between November 10 and December 1, Cole stole goods worth £964 from shops in Hook and Liphook, two villages in Hampshire. During the thefts, she reportedly wore wigs to conceal her identity.

Under the terms of her CBO, Cole is banned from wearing wigs or any face-covering accessories when entering a shop.

In addition to this restriction, she is prohibited from entering any Sainsbury’s or Tesco store in the UK, as well as the B&M store in Bordon, near Whitehill.

The Criminal Behaviour Order also includes several other conditions, such as:

• She must place all items she intends to purchase in a basket or trolley until paid for.
• She must provide proof of her ability to pay for goods if requested by staff, police, or wardens when entering any retail premises in Hampshire or Surrey.
• She must present a receipt as proof of payment if asked.
• If told to leave a shop, she must do so immediately, without aggression or abusive language, and may not return the same day.

Speaking about the case, East Hampshire Inspector Matt Wake said: “Cole repeatedly and brazenly steals from local businesses – even going as far as making a poor attempt at disguising herself with a wig to try and deceive police and shop owners.

“Once she’s served her prison sentence, she will face a number of very strict conditions that prohibit her behaviour.

“If she fails to comply, she will be arrested and brought before the courts once more.

“Where shoplifting is reported to us, we make every effort to identify and arrest offenders and use other tactics such as applying for CBOs to limit re-offending.

“There can be a number of reasons why someone might repeatedly steal.

“It varies from individual to individual but it can often be driven by addiction issues.

“Police work closely with local services who can provide support to those with addictions.”