Man given probation for shoplifting perfume and Derry City tops
Court hears offender hid £180 in his sock after stealing £319 worth of perfume and two Derry City jerseys
A man has been given two years probation at Derry Magistrate's Court for two thefts in the city.
Michael Ward (40) of Columbcille Court in Derry admitted the offences that occurred on May 22 this year he also admitted going equipped for theft having a pair of pliers and scissors with him.
The court heard the defendant entered Frasers and took three bottles of perfume valued at £319 and made off without paying.
He was identified on CCTV.
A short time later police were called to O'Neill's in Waterloo Place to a report of the theft of two Derry City FC tops.
The defendant was detained and a subsequent search uncovered £180 in cash on his sock.
Ward made full admissions and said he had been going through some hard times.
Defence counsel Michael Donaghy said that there had been a degree of premeditation about the offences.
He said Ward was 'remorseful' for his actions.
Deputy District Judge Trevor Browne said that the defendant would benefit from professional help from probation.