A Carlisle shoplifter who stole goods from two city stores on the same day has been given a 12-month condition discharge aimed at keeping him away from further crime.
Magistrates heard today how 56-year-old Kevin Metcalfe, of Melbourne Road, Carlisle, turned to crime last month amid a run of bad luck.
A prosecutor said Metcalfe was caught in the act of committing one shop theft before CCTV provided proof of a second theft on the same day.
Police learned Metcalfe had snatched 16 jars of coffee worth a total of £99.50 from the Asda store at the St Nicholas Gate retail park, off London Road.
Officers also discovered he had stolen eight containers of laundry gels with a total value of £47.92 from a nearby B&M Bargains outlet.
Both of his crimes were committed on Wednesday, March 13.
When he appeared at Carlisle’s Rickergate court, Metcalfe admitted two theft charges.
Magistrates heard he had previously lost a wallet containing all his benefit money. A defence solicitor said Metcalfe’s electricity was cut off at the home he shared with his dog, and they were left quite literally in the dark.
With no money to provide for the pair, Metcalfe turned to shoplifting. “This was a stupid decision. There is no aggravating feature. It is not sophisticated,” said Kate Hunter, mitigating.
Magistrates impose a 12-month conditional discharge which means no further action will be taken if Metcalfe stays out of trouble during the next year.
