Thief stole to pay off drugs debt

Burnley magistrates heard how former addict Angela Shaw went on a shoplifting spree at Farmfoods in the town over a fortnight to raise cash.

The 51-year-old, who has 30 theft offences, between 1985 and 2014 on her record, took frozen meat worth £57.97 and helped herself to coffee valued at £33.94 twice.

Shaw, of Kime Street, Burnley, admitted three counts of theft, on September 10th, 22nd and 24th.

She was given a 12-month conditional discharge and must pay £125.85 compensation and £40 costs.

The court was told Shaw, who is on employment and support allowance, last appeared before the Bench in 2014.

Mr Mark Williams, defending, said Shaw committed a “little burst of offending” to pay off an old drugs debt, which had resurfaced from the past.

The solicitor continued: “She was put under some pressure and unfortunately went out and committed these offences. This is not her going back to her old ways .

“She has not started taking drugs again.”

Mr Williams added the defendant, who had health issues including anxiety and depression, apologised.