Thief asked to be let go

A MAN who stole two leather jackets from Debenhams in Great Yarmouth pleaded with security guards to let him go after handing the goods back, a court heard.

A MAN who stole two leather jackets from Debenhams in Great Yarmouth pleaded with security guards to let him go after handing the goods back, a court heard.

Daniel Bell, of Westhall Road, Lowestoft, was chased and caught by store detectives and was found wearing two leather jackets.

Bell, 21, pleaded guilty to the June 17 theft at Yarmouth Magistrates Court last Thursday.

Prosecuting, Elizabeth Houghton said Bell had entered the store on at about 2.40pm after someone had asked him to steal the jackets.

She said: “Store detectives noticed him acting suspiciously and followed him. When he went to leave the store alarm was activated and security officers ran after him and stopped him near a car park.

“He said he was sorry and said he would hand back the goods if they let him go.”

Police were called to the scene and Bell, described as a “prolific offender” was arrested.

Mrs Houghton said Bell told police he had been asked to steal the jackets and would get some money for them.

Chris Bentley, mitigating, said Bell had suffered with drug problems in the past and was now living at his sister's and was trying to put his offending behaviour behind him.

Mr Bentley said: “On this occasion he had consumed alcohol. Someone had asked him to do this and he stupidly agreed.

“It was not massively sophisticated. He didn't even attempt to remove the security tags. He does accept he has an alcohol problem and certainly this played a part in removing his inhibitions.”

The case was adjourned until July 23 for pre-sentence reports.