Young Cookstown man jailed for making off with trolley full of alcohol and other goods from Tesco in Magherafelt

Magherafelt Magistrates Court heard that after filling the trolley up in the drinks section, the man walked around the store for a short time before heading for the exit without making any attempt to pay.

Appearing by video link from Maghaberry Prison was Curtis Ewing, of no fixed address, Cookstown, who admitted stealing the items, valued £132.85 belonging to Tesco on May 4.

District Judge Conor Heaney told Ewing that for a young man he has "amassed a significant criminal record for directly relevant offences of theft and burglary generally”.

The judge remarked that he considered the defendant to be a high risk of reoffending and was deemed unsuitable for Probation.

Prosecuting counsel said Tesco reported the incident to police, who later identified Ewing by reviewing CCTV.

She said the defendant in interview admitted the theft, telling police he had gone into the store and stole the items as he had no means to pay at the time.

Defence lawyer Michael Forde said Ewing had stolen the alcohol on behalf of another.

He pointed out that the defendant has now served the equivalent of a six-month sentence.

Mr Forde described Ewing as a respectful and decent young man when not under the influence of substances.

"Unfortunately, he does have his demons that he is not able to get rid off,” he added.

Judge Heaney also imposed a £25 levy and made a compensation order for £132.85.