Shoplifted to fuel drug habit
Ashleigh Susan Hughes (23), Cline Road, Banbridge, at a previous court had admitted five theft charges and the case was adjourned so that a pre-sentence report could be obtained.
Four of the thefts related to Tescos – speakers and a cable worth £35 on October 22 last year, a speaker valued at £30 on October 29, three speakers and headphones worth £96 on November 3 and a speaker valued at £29 on November 5.
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Hide AdThe other theft was of a £10 Gift Set from Boots in Banbridge on November 6.
The court heard that on November 4 police were alerted to three thefts which had taken place at Tescos on the Castlewellan Road, Banbridge.
Speaker systems had been taken and CCTV showed a female take the items and leave without paying.
Police were called again on November 5 and shown CCTV of a female taking speakers before going to the clothing area. She left with the items in a carrier bag.
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Hide AdThe theft at Boots was also captured on CCTV and when the footage was circulated a police officer was able to identify the defendant.
When Hughes was arrested she made a full admission saying she stole the items to sell on to feed her drug addiction.
District Judge, Mr Paul Copeland, said he had read the pre-sentence report and was highly impressed and noted the defendant’s degree of remorse.
He added that she had a positive attitude to put all this behind her and he was minded to go along with the probation recommendation.
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Hide AdA barrister representing Hughes said she continued to make positive progress and was extremely keen to engage with probation.
Imposing probation for nine months Judge Copeland said to the defendant: “Let this be your first, and last, appearance in any courtroom.”
Mr. Copeland also ordered the defendant to pay £190 compensation to Tescos and £10 to Boots.