Man who stole items from Co-op in Necton was battling drug addiction at the time

A court has heard how a man who committed several low-level thefts was struggling with drug addiction at the time.

Dominique Walters, 38, admitted to four offences of theft at Lynn Magistrates’ Court on Thursday.

All of the thefts were from the Co-op filling station in Necton and crown prosecutor Katharine Kibrya-Dean said they were items for personal use.

The thefts happened on May 11, 13, 20 and June 5.

Ice cream, Red Bull, doughnuts and mince meat were among some of the items that were stolen and not recovered.

Walters had also committed four other theft offences earlier this year.

In mitigation, Ruth Johnson said that Walters was transparent with her about his situation.

“He’s had substance addiction for the last few years with cocaine and alcohol,” said Ms Johnson.

“The randomness of these items gives you an insight to his state of mind at the time. He now recognises that enough is enough.”

Ms Johnson continued to explain that Walters has since sought help for addiction and has been clean for some time.

“Being sober has been a lifesaver for him,” added Ms Johnson.

Walters, of Meadowview Close in Beeston, was ordered to pay £32.20 in compensation back to the Co-op.

He was also ordered to pay court costs of £50.