A thief in Elswick was caught on CCTV stealing cosmetics worth over £400 from Boots. He has been sentenced to a community order and must pay compensation.
Newcastle: A shop thief was caught on camera stealing cosmetics in Elswick. He took over £400 worth from Boots.
Scott Lockey, 36, had been trouble-free for over a decade. But he recently returned to stealing. He and a female accomplice entered Boots in Eldon Square and left with cosmetics and electric toothbrushes.
Lockey was identified from CCTV footage. When arrested, he admitted to the crime. He received a 12-month community order and must pay £100 in compensation after pleading guilty at Newcastle Magistrates’ Court.
District Judge Kate Meek noted Lockey had stayed out of trouble for years. She emphasized that he needs help to stop stealing. The incident occurred on December 5 last year.
Prosecutor Gurjot Kaur explained that Lockey and his accomplice selected various items and left without paying. Lockey admitted his actions when questioned and recognized himself in the footage.
Despite having 17 previous offenses, Lockey aims to be law-abiding. His defense attorney mentioned he is a former drug user and is no longer involved with drugs.
Before the theft, Lockey faced threats from drug users at his home. He wanted to sell the stolen items for cash to afford temporary accommodation.
