Pensioner caught stealing

Burnley magistrates heard how Rosa Bona (64) was caught when a security guard spotted her leaving the store in the town carrying a large carrier bag and then found an empty coat hanger.

Bona was found to have stolen three items of clothing on July 3. Even though she had no record, she was not cautioned as she made no comment in interview.

The defendant, of Comrie Crescent, Burnley, admitted theft. She was given a 12 month conditional discharge and must pay £85 costs, a £150 criminal court charge and a £15 victim surcharge.

John Rusius (defending) said she had suffered from depression and anxiety for many years. He continued: “She doesn’t know why she did this on this particular day. She says she knew at the time she was doing wrong. She is very embarrassed about it. She’s very sorry. It won’t happen again she tells me.”

Deputy District Judge Tim Moran told the defendant: “It’s sad to see somebody here of your age for the first time. It seems a bit of a mystery about why you are here, but hopefully, having come here once, you won’t want to come back again.”