A SHOPLIFTER with 15 thefts on her record, made attempts to steal bottles of alcohol from M&S then returned and stole packs of steak.

Jody Barnes, 28, entered M&S in Workington at 1pm on January 2, Workington Magistrates’ Court was told.

Peter Kelly, prosecuting, said the defendant placed eight bottles of alcohol into a bag for life and was seen by staff, who were able to recover the items.

Barnes returned to the store 30 minutes later and took four bottles of alcohol. Staff who had already seen her that day, stopped her and she left the store.

She was then back in the store on January 4 and was seen taking four packs of steak. She went past the point of payment, making no attempt to pay.

Mr Kelly said the matters were reported to police and Barnes was interviewed. She gave ‘no comment’ throughout.

The court heard that Barnes has 15 theft matters on her record and was last before the court for shoplifting in November.

John Cooper, defending, said: “She tells me at the time this was happening, her partner and her were shoplifting on separate occasions. They have broken up.

“She is seeing another gentleman. Unfortunately, I do recognise the name but he has not offended for a number of years.”

Barnes, care of Nook Stret, Workington, pleaded guilty on February 13 to two charges of theft from a shop and a charge of failing to surrender to police or court bail.

Passing sentence on Monday, magistrates fined Barnes £120 and ordered her to pay £72 in compensation to M&S. She must also pay £85 costs and a £48 victim surcharge.

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