Shoplifter offended under ‘duress from violent partner’

A persistent shoplifter narrowly escaped prison after a court heard she was forced to steal by an abusive partner.

Kayleigh Watson breached two suspended sentences and a conditional discharge, all imposed for theft, when she stole from five shops, South Northumbria Magsistrates’ Court heard.

Lesley Burgess, prosecuting, said Watson was seen on CCTV in Marks and Spencer in Northgate, Darlington, on April 13 when she put meat worth £100 in a bag and left without paying.

She then took spirits worth £108 from Asda in Darlington on May 9 before stealing a £70 copper pan set from Wilkinsons in Sunderland on Aiugust 11.

Five days later, she was caught on CCTV as she took two bottle of perfume valued at £173 from Debenhams.

The last offence was the next day in Poundland in Sunderland when she was seen to steal washing powder valued at £80.

Watson, 29, of High Street East, Sunderland, admitted five charges of theft.

The court heard she has 30 previous convictions, mostly for theft. Ian Jordan, defending, said: “This latest spate of offending was largely committed under duress from a violent partner who Ms Watson met at a rehab facility.

“I have seen her when she attended at our office with obvious physical injuries.

“Ms Watson ended the relationship, then she found herself homeless, sofa surfing, or sleeping in shop doorways. Having literally no money, she felt she had no alternative but to carry on stealing.”

Watson was sentenced to 16 weeks in prison, suspended for two years, 10 days of rehabilitation activity, and she was ordered to pay £598 costs and compensation.