Court hears man 'who had no money' stole food from Lisburn Spar store

He appeared before Lisburn Magistrates Court on Thursday, June 11, 2026 after pleading guilty to four charges of theft from the Spar store.

The court heard that police received a report from the store that a male was suspected of theft on a number of occasions between November 23, 2025 and March 28, 2026.

It was stated that the defendant, Anthony O’Neill, whose address was given as Divis Street in Belfast, had stolen perishable groceries on four separate occasions, totalling a value of £54.86.

He was arrested and made full admission during police interview, saying that he had no money and needed to feed himself.

A defence lawyer told the court the defendant had entered guilty pleas immediately at the first court appearance.

He continued: “He is a 42-year-old man who had moved to Lisburn from Belfast and there was no real family support.

"He was isolated and on his own.

"He was living on £170 every fortnight and he stole to feed himself.

"There are no dishonesty offences on his record and he wants to pay back the money.

"The defendant would be very eager to to sustain the progress he has made.”

Deputy District Judge Philip Mateer told the defendant: “What you stole was of very low value.

"The pre-sentence report makes it clear you show some remorse. I believe the public would be best served by placing you on probation.”

Mr Mateer imposed a probation order for two years and ordered the defendant to pay £54.86 in restitution.