Booted Out Of The Square Mile: Shoplifter Who Targeted Health And Beauty Chain

A prolific shoplifter, who targeted the same City of London Boots store, stealing expensive skincare products and razors, has been banned from entering the Square Mile for five years.

Homeless Victor Leahu, 32, hit the Cheapside branch between November, 2024 and January 2025, stealing around £1,835 worth of items.

He was sentenced at Westminster Magistrates’ Court to 10 weeks imprisonment for five counts of theft and was handed a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO), banning him from the City from five years.

Officers from the Proactive Acquisitive Crime Team were out in the City when they recognised Leahu from his distinctive hand tattoo and made the arrest.

Sergeant James Wood, of the City of London Police, said: “Prosecuting shoplifters is important to the City of London Police. Retail crime is not a victimless crime.

“Leahu targeted this store, stealing expensive items in a brazen fashion, often causing distress to customers and shop workers.

“We fully support retailers to come forward and report any crime and through the store’s CCTV, and our extensive camera network in the City, we will bring criminals to justice.”

CCTV footage captured Leahu entering the store and heading straight to specific aisles and snatching items off the shelves.

He would then make a quick exit out of the store. The main items he would take in bulk were higher priced skincare items and razors.

Leahu preyed on Boots, Cheapside the following days.

On 22 November 2024, he stole around £532 worth of goods;

On 17 December 2024, he stole around £393 worth of goods;

On 19 December 2024, he stole around £132 worth of goods;

On 7 January 2025, he stole around £133 worth of goods; and

On 21 January 2025, he stole around £635 worth of goods.