Shoplifter stole meat, booze and chocolate

Ashley Hope, 32, of Second Avenue, in Ashington, pleaded guilty to pinching alcohol, chocolate and meat, which amounted to hundreds of pounds, over the course of a month.

On Thursday, December 22, he took whiskey, to the value of £35, from the Co-op in Widdrington and also spirits to the value of £99 from Amble’s Co-op shop.

On various days in December and January, he targeted the Co-op at Pegswood, stealing a haul of items, such as Smirnoff Vodka, Jura, Jack Daniels, Taylor’s Port, six tubs of Celebrations chocolates, seven steaks, a turkey crown, and another quantity of meat worth £60.

On Tuesday, December 13, at the Co-op at Newbiggin-by-the-Sea, he stole meat products to the value of £50.

On New Year’s Day, he stole more meat, worth £71,06, this time from the Co-op at Ashington.

Hope appeared at Mid and South East Northumberland Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, March 15, for a trial. He had originally pleaded not guilty to the offences, but changed these to guilty. He also faced a failing-to-surrender charge.

He was given a six-month community order.