Worker stole stock from his employer

A MAN stole hundreds of pounds’ worth of stock from his employer “out of spite” as they prepared for a big sale, a court heard.

Cardiff Crown Court heard that Connor Bancroft helped himself to car batteries and tool kits from car maintenance retailer Halfords as the store geared up for its Boxing Day sale.

Recorder IWL Jones said: “Theft from an employer is always serious because it involves an element of breach of trust.”

The court heard the incident occurred on Friday, December 16, last year at Halfords in Barry.

Prosecutor Jason Howells said the defendant started working for the company when he was 18 after a successful work experience placement.

He said the manager described him as “a hard-worker” and had given him opportunities to progress within the store. The court heard he was given additional hours after showing an interest in becoming assistant manager.

Mr Howells said the defendant returned to work in November last year, after being absent due to stress.

He told the court about a month after Bancroft’s return to work, the branch received a delivery of new stock for its Boxing Day sale.

The prosecutor said the manager discovered some items were missing and saw the defendant acting suspiciuosly when he watched the store’s CCTV.

Mr Howells said Bancroft stole two tools kits and two car batteries worth £590.

The defendant resigned on December 23 and was arrested in February, when he made no reply to caution. He told the officer there was a tool kit under his stairs but claimed it was a present from a friend.

Bancroft initially denied the offence, claiming his manager did not like him.

The 22-year-old from Pen-y-Darren Close, Barry, later admitted theft by employee. Prosecutors said he had one previous conviction for driving after using cannabis.

Andrew Davies, defending, described the offence as stupid and naive, adding: “There was no sophistication. It was almost an act of spite just before he left the company.”

He told the court his client now works in a stock-based role at Aldi, stressing the company knows about his conviction.

Bancroft received a 12-month community order, requiring him to complete 200 hours of unpaid work. He must pay £390 in compensation, £535 in costs and an £85 surcharge.