Alleged shoplifter wore 'ill-fitting blonde wig' in attempt at disguise while on a 'one man crimewave' in Sainsbury's, M&S, Home Bargains and Tesco including theft of champagne
An alleged shoplifter wore an '"ill-fitting blonde-style wig" in an attempt at disguise during a "one man crimewave" involving targeting hundreds of pounds worth of goods including champagne, a court has heard.
Deputy District Judge Mark Hamill said if the 39-year-old defendant was released on bail shopkeepers would "be in tears".
A police officer told Ballymena Magistrates' Court that in July, Gary Cully, of Barra Drive in Ballymena, entered the town’s Sainsbury's store "and this time he was wearing an ill-fitting blonde style wig. He went straight to the alcohol section and he stole alcohol to the value of £50."
Cully faces 27 charges including thefts from Sainsburys in Ballymena and Coleraine; Home Bargains; Tesco in Ballymena; and Marks & Spencer.
Items taken included razors, protein powders, scented candles, meat and alcohol, including £131 of champagne.
Thefts took place between April and August and amounted to almost £1,200 including the theft of £35 worth of alcohol on July 12.
He is also charged with possession of cannabis on October 14.
When interviewed, the defendant who had 54 previous convictions, said he could not recall some of the new alleged incidents because he was under the influence of alcohol.
A defence barrister said the defendant sees 'Community Addictions'.
Judge Hamill said shopkeepers "would be in tears" if he granted bail.
He said Cully was "basically a one man crimewave" and the risk of further offending was "a certainty".
The defendant was remanded in custody and the case was adjourned to mid-November.