Station bike thief gets two-year train ban ASBO

A thief from Norfolk who targeted bikes left by commuters at railway stations has received a ban from traveling anywhere on the railway network in England & Wales with a bicycle.

James Leonard, 42, was issued with an anti-social behaviour order (ASBO) lasting two years, expriring in December 2011, that also bans him from carrying tools including pliers or bolt-croppers.

Leonard, who was also sentenced to 54 hours’ community service, had admitted stealing two bicycles on the same day from the bike racks at Kings Lynn station. At the time, he was on bail after being arrested for the theft of another bicycle at Ely station.

PC Tony Orton of British Transport Police said: “Leonard's actions caused misery for the commuters he stole from and we welcome the court's decision to restrict his activities on the railway.

“If Leonard is seen to be travelling on the railway with a bike or the tools to steal them he will be in breach of his ASBO and will be committing a criminal offence,” he added.

Leonard was caught after BTP officers analysed CCTV footage and managed to identify Leonard with the help of Norfolk police. They arrested the thief at his home, where bolt-cutters were also discovered.

Accrding to PC Orton, “The fact that he was spotted on CCTV was crucial in securing his conviction. The case should serve as a strong reminder that if you intend to steal on the railway there is a good chance of you being caught on camera and ending up in court to face the consequences.”

British Transport Police have urged anyone seeing Leonard infringing the terms of the ASBO to notify them immediately on 0800 405040.