Jail for thief who stole woman’s bag
A homeless thief stole a woman’s handbag containing cash and gift vouchers as she celebrated her birthday in Newcastle city centre.
Daragh Hastings had asked the woman - who was enjoying her 50th birthday at the Centurion Bar - for change at Central Station on April 9.
But after the woman refused, Hastings went on to take her handbag that contained cash and gift vouchers, leaving the victim “devastated”.
Last week, Hastings, 35, of no fixed address, appeared at Newcastle Magistrates’ Court where he pleaded guilty to the theft. He was jailed for 22 weeks.
Jennifer Mcelvin, prosecuting, told the court Hastings was breaching a suspended sentence at the time of the offence and made “full and frank admissions” to police.
She said the offence was “opportunistic” as the bag had been left and that some cash had been recovered.
In a victim statement, the woman said the handbag was of “sentimental” value and contained birthday presents.
She said: “I am devastated that all the gifts are gone”, adding that she had been left “frightened and nervous”.
Alanna Wesencraft told the court it was “not a sophisticated offence” that Hastings had carried out. She said: “Several homeless males met at Central Station. [The victim] left the bag and he made off with it.”
Ms Wesencraft said Hastings has “difficulties with substances” and has been moved to a hotel after being a victim of domestic abuse.
She added: “He would like to apologise ... he has been open and honest with probation.”
Sentencing Hastings, District Judge Paul Currer said the theft was a “particularly mean and unpleasant thing to do”.
Hastings was jailed for 22 weeks and must pay £160 compensation.