Mark Adams, 26, stole four computer games worth £136.86 from the Tesco store in Burn Road, Hartlepool.

Adams, who has 10 convictions on his record for 43 offences including 11 thefts, was seen going into the store with a bag before picking up the games and trying to leave without offering payment.

Tahira Bouchier, prosecuting at Hartlepool Magistrates' Court, said Adams was detained and made full admissions when he was interviewed by police officers.

"He said he had gone with the intention to steal. He had taken a foil-lined bag to stop the sensors at the shop being triggered.

"He said he owed money to gypsies, approximately £50, and that's why he stole," she added.

"All items were recovered."

The court heard that Adams' last similar offence was committed in 2003 and he was last before the court on February 14 this year for failing to attend a follow-up drug assessment, for which he was fined.

Adams, of Raunds Avenue, Stockton, admitted theft on March 6.

John Relton, mitigating, said Adams had not been before the court for similar matters in the last four years and asked magistrates to consider imposing a discharge.

He added: "I don't present drugs as mitigation in this particular offence. But my client does require voluntary use of methadone.

"This crime stems from the fact he owes some gypsies some money and he sought to work off that debt.

"But he was under pressure to steal these items at their request to clear the balance, as it were."

Adams was fined £50 with £50 costs and a £15 victim surcharge to pay.