Prolific offender jailed

A man has been sentenced for multiple thefts and breaching a criminal behaviour order.

Michael Cakebread, aged 37, formerly of Hertford and now of no fixed abode, appeared at Wood Green Crown Court on Friday 24th July, where he was given a two-year sentence for 12 counts of shoplifting, one count of vehicle interference and 10 counts of breaching a Criminal Behaviour Order.

Cakebread was arrested on Saturday 20th June in connection with a theft from Poundstretcher on High Street in Hoddesdon and was subsequently charged. He was also charged with a number of other theft offences that occurred between 6th June and 20th June 2026 in Hertford and Hoddesdon.

He was remanded into custody before being recalled back to prison, due to a breach of a previous order.

Sergeant Luke Collyer, from the Ware Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: "Cakebread is a prolific offender who has caused repeated harm and disruption to businesses and communities through his persistent offending.

"Thanks to the work of officers and our partners in gathering evidence and building a strong case, he has now been sentenced and will be off our streets for a considerable amount of time.

"We hope this result provides reassurance to retailers and residents that we will continue to pursue those who repeatedly commit crime and bring them before the courts."