An Armagh man who stole coal, firelighters and turf from a city shop has been given a conditional discharge.
William Simmons, of Alexander Avenue, admitted the theft from O’Kane’s Superstore on December 1 last.
Armagh Magistrates’ Court heard on Tuesday that the defendant made off with goods to the value of £17.49.
Court heard police attended O’Kane’s Superstore on the Moy Road after reports that two men had stolen a trolley containing goods.
It was revealed the items stolen included coal, firelighters and turf.
Defence counsel told Deputy District Judge Des Perry that it had been some time since this “prolific” offender had been before the court.
He said his 48-year-old client had spent eight years in jail during which time he had “got himself clean”.
Court also heard that the defendant now attended regular hospital appointments during which he has submitted to drug tests.
Defence claimed that the involvement of the other male had “clouded Simmons’ judgement”.
Deputy District Judge Perry said he was satisfied by these claims and handed the defendant a conditional discharge.
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