Barred

Here’s a Guy Who’s Banned From Every Bar and Restaurant in London

Nothing to see here, buddy.
Nothing to see here, buddy. Photo: Shutterstock

Rodney Williams, a Londoner with a real thing for pilfering bags and phones who’s now off to prison for four years, should probably just leave town when he gets out, because he’s also been prohibited from entering any of the 35,000 or so places that serve alcohol in the 600-square-mile area. The court ruling is believed to be the first time a court “has barred a criminal from entering all of Greater London’s licensed premises.” Congrats, Rod!

Williams initially got picked up for lifting a single bargoer’s handbag, but after police pored over CCTV footage, they realized he was a good deal more productive than he initially let on. Williams’s 25-year ban stays in effect until he’s 59 — before then, he can patronize a place if the owner grants specific permission, but the presumption is that “no right-minded licensee would want this person in their premises.” The judge, noted the local chief police inspector, “obviously took a very dim view of his behavior.”

[Gazette, Daily Express]

Here’s a Guy Who’s Banned From Every Bar and Restaurant in London