Shoplifter caught after leaving name and address in Hartlepool store she raided

Lisa Reed left the Family Shopper store, in Catcote Road, Hartlepool, with two trays of deodorant, Hartlepool Magistrates’ Court heard.

“She took the items, priced at £36.87, away in a bag,” said David Maddison, prosecuting. “But she left behind other bags, one of which contained details of her name and address.

“When interviewed by police, she said she intended to pay for the items.

“Her guilty plea today indicates that was not the case.”

Reed, 36, of Raby Gardens, Hartlepool, admitted theft on December 14, and being in breach of a conditional discharge imposed for a previous offence of theft.

Magistrates were told Reed stole the items for cash to buy Christmas presents for her four children.

John Relton, defending, said in mitigation: “At the time Ms Reed was in debt, and was facing the prospect of having no money to buy gifts for her four children for Christmas.

“She foolishly decided to steal in an attempt to alleviate that problem.

“This is not a case as one so often sees of someone struggling with drink, drugs, accommodation or a bad relationship.

“Ms Reed did not offend between 2003 and 2014, which demonstrates she is capable of putting together long periods of good behaviour.

“All she can do is apologise through me, and ask the court to show her some leniency.”

Reed was ordered to pay £130 in fines, costs and compensation.

The money will be deducted from her benefits.