£36k bookies rampage of losing punter
A GAMBLING addict shouted “I’m sick of losing money,” as he smashed up bookmakers in attacks on seven shops, a court heard.
Eric Baptista, 29, who lost his savings on fixedodds machines, used a hammer and did £36,000 damage at William Hill shops in Liverpool.
He filmed himself carrying out one attack.
The prosecution told the city’s crown court he “didn’t regret the damage”.
He claimed he tried in vain to get himself banned from the stores.
Baptista admitted seven criminal damage charges and was given suspended jail and a five-year ban from Hill’s premises.
The bookie said it would “never prevent someone” wanting to ban themselves from shops or online.