Stole bank card while brother lay in hospital

Adam Laverty (20), originally from Larne but whose address was given as the Upperlands area near Maghera, appeared at Ballymena Magistrate’s Court, on Thursday, for sentencing on charges of burglary and fraud by false representation.

He entered his brother’s house at Linn Road, Larne, at some stage during a nine-day period last year and stole the bank card.

He then made false representations that he was entitled to use the card.

A prosecutor said Laverty’s fingerprints were on the card but the defendant initially told police he had a key for the flat and had permission to use the card.

However, he later admitted the offences.

Defence barrister Ben Thompson said it was an “unpleasant” case.

He said although Laverty had not paid back any of the money the bank had reimbursed his brother.