Caught selling stolen items

A Coatbridge man has been told he will remain under supervision for more than a year after selling stolen goods.

Stuart Sharp, 24, pleaded guilty by letter to selling the items which had been stolen during a house breaking in Coatbridge in July last year.

Langloan Street resident Sharp had nothing to do with the break-in, but was caught selling items when a buyer recognised some of the objects from a Facebook post by the rightful owner.

The procurator fiscal told Airdrie Sheriff Court: “The items were stolen during a house-breaking on July 17 last year.

“A large number of household items, totalling a value of £ 1886.59, were stolen from the owner’s conservatory.

“A woman was contacted by the accused offering to sell her items and told they were acquired from a warehouse sale.

“The victim of the theft has placed a post on Facebook regarding it and the woman became aware of what she’d bought.

“Through social media, the victim identified the goods at the new buyer’s address and police were contacted.

“Officers attended and investigations led them to the accused.

“He was interviewed and stated he bought them from an associate knowing they had been stolen.

“He denied any involvement in the break-in.”

In defence of his client, Sharp’s solicitor said: “Forensic evidence has proved my client wasn’t involved in the house-breaking.

“He has a list of previous convictions stemming from a difficult upbringing. His parents’ break-up had a big effect on him.

“He has had a lack of offending during the last 18 months as he is in a stable relationship, which has had a positive effect on him.

“He struggles with mental health issues but uses cannabis regularly as he believes it helps his state of mind.”

At this point, Sheriff Petra Collins interrupted and said: “It probably doesn’t.”

Sharp’s solicitor continued: “Given his record, I understand custody must be on your mind.

“But he has been crime-free for a sustained period of time.

“My submission is that you could impose a community-based sentence.”

Sheriff Collins told Sharp: “You do not have a great record.

“I am placing you under supervision for 15 months.

“You must do as you’re told by your supervising officer.

“This is a direct alternative to custody, so if you breach your order you will be brought back here and can expect to be given a custodial sentence.”

He struggles with mental health issues but uses cannabis as he believes it helps his state of mind.