More jail time imposed on Sydney Mines man for nine theft charges

A 32-year-old father of two who has amassed 46 prior convictions for such offences as theft and fraud has been sentenced to further jail time on nine more theft charges.

Stephen James Somerton of Main Street, Sydney Mines, was sentenced after pleading guilty to nine counts of theft, two counts of failing to attend court, two counts of breaching court orders and a single count of possession of stolen property (a television set).

The offences occurred between December 2013 and March 2018.

Walmart and Sobeys were favorite targets for Somerton who, between the years of the offences, stole everything from automotive parts to razor blades. In-store video surveillance helped identify Somerton as the culprit in a number of the thefts.

The latest offence occurred in March when Somerton was charged with possession of stolen property after a TV was stolen from an apartment building where Somerton lived and then pawned at a Sydney store.

Prosecutor Steve Drake said Somerton has a long history of drug-associated conflict with the law.

Somerton admitted to authorities of using a host of illegal drugs over his life.

Drake and duty counsel lawyer Mike Kuna offered a joint sentencing recommendation of four months and two weeks having credited Somerton with four months spent on remand.

In addition, he is to complete a twoyear probation period during which he is to take all counselling as recommended by his probation officer.