Stole copper to fund BBQ

Damien Moore (18), of Altnahinch Road, Loughgiel, Ballymena, pleaded guilty to stealing a copper tank belonging to a local nursery on April 12.

Antrim Magistrates Court was told that the removal of the copper tank caused 5,000 worth of damage.

Raymond Johnston (20) of Canning Grove, Crumlin, admitted stealing copper piping from a van to the value of 94 on May 26.

Moore also pleaded guilty to stealing copper from the van.

A defence solicitor speaking on behalf of Moore told the court that the he had made full admissions to both thefts.

Defence said: “He understands that this sort of nonsense and behaviour must stop. They stole the copper from the van and used the money to buy drinks and food for a BBQ, which shows the height of immaturity.”

Defence also added that there was low likelihood of Moore re-offending.

District Judge Robert Alcorn replied: “Why did he do it [steal] again? Did he want to become a professional thief? Which is already clearly is.”

Defence told the court that the first incident was “alcohol fuelled" and the second was "opportunistic”.

He added: “They didn't appreciate the seriousness of taking the copper.”

Judge Alcorn didn't accept that Moore stealing the boiler was a spur of the moment decision, and added: “You had cutting gear it was a planned job.”

A defence solicitor speaking on behalf of Johnston said stealing the copper from the van was an “opportunistic crime”,

He told the court that Johnston is now in full time employment and is in a position to pay the compensation.

Responding to Mr Alcorn, Johnson explained why he carried out the offence and said: “I guess I was looking for money.”

Mr Alcorn replied: “Of course you were, you went out to steal your goods.”

At Antrim Magistrates Court, Mr Alcorn sentenced Johnson to six months in prison but suspended it for two years and fined him 400.

Mr Alcorn sentenced Moore to 10 months in prison for the charge of stealing the boiler and three months for stealing the copper from the van.

He was released on bail of 500 and assurities of 750 pending an appeal.