A shoplifter who raided the same BP garage 15 times was caught with heroin and crack cocaine. Brian Howard, 57, was found to have stolen items worth hundreds of pounds in Basildon, Essex.
Howard also targeted Home Bargains, Basildon Magistrates’ Court heard, stealing five boxed pizzas and hiding ready meals under his coat before making off without paying. After being caught, Howard, who has 27 previous convictions, said the drugs were for personal use.
Court hearing details
Howard, appearing in court via prison link from HMP Chelmsford, wore a grey tracksuit during the hearing and sat back in his chair with his arms folded. He appeared for sentencing at Basildon Magistrates' Court.
Prosecuting, Bernadette Danagher, outlined the value of items taken. On three separate occasions, he took products worth £330.25, £278.70 and £255 in the Essex town.
Breach of criminal behaviour order
Each time Howard entered the garage and stole, it was in contravention of a criminal behaviour order (CBO). He also stole from Home Bargains, on one occasion filling a backpack with goods. The defendant took five boxed pizzas and hid ready meals under his coat “making no attempt to pay”.
The court also heard that Howard committed a theft from a person of an item valued at £900. When he was arrested, police found 0.3 grams of crack cocaine and 0.11 grams of heroin. Ms Danagher also mentioned that Howard had 27 previous convictions, including for theft.
Sentencing scheduled
Defence counsel Mark Jerman mentioned that the defendant was homeless, adding that “there’s nothing much” he can say. Howard, who pleaded guilty to theft, will be sentenced at Basildon Crown Court on September 21 and was remanded in custody. When asked if he understood, Howard replied: “Yep.”
