Rasharkin woman fined for theft from shop

Jacqueline Mary Fleming (44) of Portna Road appeared before North Antrim Magistrates Court on Friday where she pleaded guilty to a charge of theft.

A prosecutor told the court police were called to the store after a woman was suspected of having left the premises without paying for goods on December 16 last year.

When police arrived the suspect had left the scene but following witnesses’ descriptions police tracked her down at her home where she admitted taking the items without paying.

CCTV footage also showed Fleming putting items into a carrier bag and leaving the premises.

The prosecutor said Fleming had been fully co-operative with police and appeared extremely remorseful and embarrassed when being interviewed.

The items were all fit to be re-sold, the court was told.

A defence solicitor said her client “did not fit the standard profile of someone involved in this crime”.

“She is obviously a woman who has had difficulties,” she said.

“Since this incident there appears not to have been any further repetition.”

District Judge Richard Wilson told Fleming: “You have to understand you have to keep your hands to yourself.

“If this persists the consequences will be more severe.”

Fleming was fined 150.

“Don’t you be back,” said Mr Wilson.