Shoplifter is gambling addict

Shoplifter is gambling addict
by Colin Rutherford, Kilmarnock Standard

A SERIAL shoplifter stole to fund his gambling addiction, Kilmarnock Sheriff Court heard this week.

Thirty five-year-old Charles Hay, of Western Road, Kilmarnock, pleaded guilty to a string of offences.

Katie McColl, prosecuting, said Hay stole a dress worth £40 from Cove in Bank Street and a bottle of perfume worth £51 from Boots in King Street. Neither item was recovered.

Hay was, however, caught after stealing a pair of jeans worth £40 from the River Island store in King Street.

Ms McColl said: “Police stopped him in King street and took him to the police office. They interviewed him and he admitted the offence.”

The offences were committed last August.

In June last year Hay stole a purse and a greetings card from I Do Gifts in Bank Street, Kilmarnock.

Ms McColl said that shop staff saw him take the items from a display and leave without paying.

She said: “They contacted the police who viewed CCTV and were able to identify the accused.”

When Hay was interviewed on this occasion, however, he refused to admit the offence.

Said Ms McColl: “He was saying that, if he didn’t say what he had stole, he would get off with the case as the police and the witnesses were incompetent.”

Kris Kane, defending, told the court: “The thefts were the means of funding an extensive gambling habit.

“He is a habitual gambler who lives well outwith his means.”

Hay, he said, was now engaging with Gamblers Anonymous and had been referred for a psychiatric appointment.

“He struggles with everyday concepts,” said Mr Kane. “He is well aware this is a course of conduct which is not acceptable in modern society.”

Sheriff Brian Murphy deferred sentence until March 7 for social enquiry and community service reports.