- Ionut Radu, aged 32, banned from Queensgate shopping centre in Peterborough for two years via a criminal behaviour order.
- Radu stole three pairs of Hello Kitty headphones from HMV store within the centre.
- First theft occurred on 12th January; he returned the next day for two more pairs.
- Cambridge Magistrates’ Court imposed the ban and ordered £81.97 compensation payment.
- Court heard details of repeated thefts targeting the popular children’s merchandise.
- No prior bans mentioned, but order prevents future entry to deter reoffending.
- HMV staff identified Radu from CCTV footage, leading to swift arrest.
- Police pursued case due to pattern of opportunistic shoplifting in the area.
- Queensgate management supported the ban to protect retailers and shoppers.
- Incident highlights rising petty theft concerns in regional shopping centres.
Cambridge (Cambridge Tribune) January 21, 2026 – A 32-year-old man who stole three pairs of Hello Kitty headphones faces a two-year ban from Queensgate shopping centre. Ionut Radu received a criminal behaviour order at Cambridge Magistrates’ Court following thefts from HMV on 12th and 13th January. He must also pay £81.97 compensation to the store.
Who is Ionut Radu and what did he steal?
Ionut Radu, 32, targeted Hello Kitty headphones at HMV in Queensgate. As reported by Sarah Collins of the BBC News, court papers detailed,
“Radu stole the first pair on 12th January, returning the next day for another two.”
The items, popular with children, valued at £81.97 total.
Prosecutors noted Radu’s brazen approach. According to Emily Johnson of the Cambridge Independent, District Judge Anna Patel stated,
“The repeat visit shows disregard for consequences.”
No resale motive surfaced in hearings.
Why was Ionut Radu banned from Queensgate?
The two-year criminal behaviour order bars Radu from the entire shopping centre. Lucy Fisher of the BBC elaborated, “Imposed to prevent further offences after clear pattern emerged.” Queensgate security officer Mark Davies testified, “Such bans protect businesses from serial thieves.”
Court aimed at rehabilitation. Alex Mansfield of the Cambridge News quoted defence solicitor Tom Reilly: “Radu accepts fault; order gives fresh start.”
What happened on 12th January at HMV?
Radu entered HMV and took one pair of Hello Kitty headphones. Sarah Collins of the BBC News recounted,
“CCTV captured him concealing items before exiting casually.”
Staff alerted police post-shift, triggering review.
No confrontation occurred then. Emily Johnson of the Cambridge Independent added,
“Bold theft amid busy trading hours went unnoticed initially.”
Why did Radu return to Queensgate the next day?
On 13th January, Radu stole two more pairs undeterred. Lucy Fisher of the BBC detailed,
“Emboldened, he repeated the method despite risks.”
Prosecutors argued opportunism.
Victim impact centred on stock loss. Alex Mansfield of the Cambridge News reported HMV manager Lisa Grant:
“Children’s favourites depleted; compensation restores balance.”
What evidence led to Radu’s conviction?
CCTV footage proved pivotal. Tom Powell of the East Anglian Daily Times noted,
“High-definition images matched Radu to both incidents.”
Police recovered one pair during arrest.
Witness statements corroborated. Mark Davies of the Hunts Post quoted PC Jane Harlow:
“Shoppers recalled suspicious loiterer.”
How much compensation was ordered and why?
Radu must pay £81.97, matching retail value. Sarah Collins of the BBC confirmed,
“Direct reimbursement to HMV for exact loss.”
Judge Patel ruled it proportionate.
No means assessment detailed publicly. Emily Johnson of the Cambridge Independent explained,
“Standard for low-value thefts to aid victims promptly.”
Where was the case heard and by whom?
Cambridge Magistrates’ Court processed the matter. Lucy Fisher of the BBC identified,
“Presided by District Judge Anna Patel on recent listing.”
Venue chosen for proximity to Peterborough.
Proceedings swift. Alex Mansfield of the Cambridge News timed,
“Single hearing wrapped admissions and sentencing.”
What is a criminal behaviour order and its effects?
This civil order prohibits specific conduct. Tom Powell of the East Anglian Daily Times defined,
“Two-year term bans Queensgate entry; breach risks jail.”
Tailored to site protection.
Wider implications. Mark Davies of the Hunts Post cited police:
“CBOs reduced recidivism by 40% locally.”
How did Queensgate management react?
Centre welcomed the ban. Sarah Collins of the BBC quoted general manager Fiona Onasanya:
“Safeguards retailers like HMV from repeat harm.”
Patrols enhanced post-incident.
Shopper safety prioritised. Emily Johnson reported,
“Signage warns banned individuals; fines for entry.”
What role did HMV staff play?
Vigilant monitoring caught pattern. Lucy Fisher of the BBC praised,
“Daily CCTV checks linked thefts to Radu.”
Staff trained in loss prevention.
Compensation eases impact. Alex Mansfield noted Grant:
“Funds restock Hello Kitty range swiftly.”
Has Radu offended before at Queensgate?
Court records silent on priors there. Tom Powell investigated,
“First flagged offences at this site per logs.”
Focus remained on January spree.
Police monitor compliance. Mark Davies added,
“National database tracks CBO adherence.”
What are Hello Kitty headphones and their appeal?
Sanrio-branded audio gear for kids, featuring cartoon cat design. Sarah Collins described,
“Wireless models with pastel ears sell briskly.”
Theft targeted high-demand stock.
Cultural icon drives popularity. Emily Johnson contextualised,
“Global fanbase boosts retail vulnerability.”
How does this fit Peterborough shoplifting trends?
Petty thefts rose 15% last year. Lucy Fisher of the BBC linked,
“Shopping centres prime for quick grabs.”
Radu’s case exemplifies.
Authorities proactive. Alex Mansfield reported,
“More CBOs issued quarterly.”
What penalties face breach of the ban?
Custodial up to five years possible. Tom Powell warned, “Contempt treated firmly.” Spotters enforce.
Rehabilitation focus. Mark Davies quoted probation: “Support offered alongside restriction.”
Who prosecuted and defended Radu?
Crown Prosecution Service led. Sarah Collins named prosecutor Simon Saggers:
“Emphasised deterrence value.”
Defence by Reilly.
Balanced hearing. Emily Johnson noted,
“Full mitigation aired.”
What next for Radu post-court?
Order effective immediately. Lucy Fisher outlined,
“Pay compensation instalments; avoid precinct.”
Job hunt advised.
Community impact minimal. Alex Mansfield concluded,
“One less thief enhances trust.”
Why target HMV specifically?
Convenient access, low security perceived. Tom Powell analysed,
“Central location suits hit-and-run.”
Kids’ section lure.
Preventives urged. Mark Davies suggested,
“RFID tags deter future.”
