Thief stole booze and tan in shoplifting spree
A PROLIFIC thief stole fake tan, booze and hair clippers during his latest shoplifting spree.
John Hill targeted Boots and Tesco Extra, both in Kingston Park, Newcastle, three times in less than two months between September and November last year. A court heard that the 22-year-old made-off with more than £200-worth of goods, including fake tan, booze and hair clippers. However, he was later identified as the culprit and had been due to face the music at North Tyneside Magistrates’ Court last week.
But Hill failed to show and a warrant was issued for his arrest, leading him to appear in the dock in custody on Tuesday.
The thief, of Wigmore Avenue, in Walker, pleaded guilty to two counts of shop theft, one of attempted shop theft and one of failing to surrender to custody. The court heard that Hill, who has amassed 64 offences on his record by the age of 22, many for theft, first targeted Boots on September 26 and took four bottles of fake tan, worth £120.
He then made off with more than £100-worth of booze and hair clippers from Tesco Extra, where he struck twice in five days on November 13 and 18.
Magistrates heard that Hill last appeared before the court on December 31 last year, when he was given a conditional discharge for shop theft. Neil Connell, defending, said Hill had been struggling with homelessness and drugs misuse at the time of the latest offences.
He added: “He’s a young lad who lost his father suddenly at 15 years old and he fell apart after that.
“His circumstances have now significantly improved. He’s off the streets and living with his aunt.”
Magistrates adjourned the case for the preparation of a pre-sentence report and to tie up with other matters on April 14. Hill was released on bail until that date.