Man put chicken drumsticks in trousers

Piotr Filip Czarnoskutov, Princes Street, Lurgan, admitted the theft of the drumsticks, valued at £2.99, when he appeared last Wednesday at Craigavon Magistrates Court.

For the offence he was sentenced to two months in prison, suspended for 12 months, and ordered to make restitution of £2.99.

The court heard that police were called to the Spar store in William Street, Lurgan, concerning a theft allegation.

On CCTV the defendant was seen taking a packet of chicken drumsticks from a chill cabinet and hide them in his trousers before leaving the store.

A member of staff followed and detained the defendant. The item was not fit for re-sale.

Czarnoskutov told police he was hungry and had no money for food and that was why he stole the item.

Mr Conor Downey, representing the defendant, said his client was a chronic alcoholic but was in a much better place now.

He explained that the defendant simply had no money and had not eaten for several days.

Deputy District Judge Laura Ievers said she was concerned about his record because he had a number of convictions for dishonesty.

She added that normally she would consider immediate custody but because of the defendant’s early plea she would suspend the sentence.