Drug addict stole 13 steaks from M&S

A shoplifter with 120 offences behind her went stealing again to fund her £280-a-week drug addiction, a court heard.
Burnley Magistrates' CourtBurnley Magistrates' Court
Burnley Magistrates' Court

Tracy Lyon, who went into fitting rooms before trying to walk out of shops with her hauls, was on benefits of £240-a-fortnight. She had battled her addiction for almost 40 years, since she was 18.

Burnley magistrates were told how Lyon had stopped committing crime after a drugs programme, but had relapsed because of health issues.

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She now wanted to become drug-free and needed the help of the probation service to do it.

The 55-year-old, of Barden View, Burnley, admitted stealing six fragrances worth a total of £350 from Debenhams in Blackburn, on June 30th.

She also admitted the theft of 13 steaks worth £174.83, from Marks and Spencer in Burnley, on July 5th.

She received a six-month community order with a drugs programme, was fined £40 and was told to pay £85 costs and an £85 victim surcharge.

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The hearing was told the defendant had made 62 court appearances.

Mr Mark Williams, defending, said the defendant now had a full-blown addiction.

He continued: “She has self-referred to Inspire (the drugs treatment service) but that has not yet kicked in.”