Habitual thief re-offends
A MAN in danger of becoming an “habitual thief”, according to Magistrate Vivien Edwards, pleaded guilty in Mandurah Magistrates Court on Friday to stealing. John Lenard Okey was charged after stealing a socket set from Bunnings on December 28, 2014.
The court heard Okey, who has an extensive record of similar offences and outstanding fines of more than $11,500, was at the Mandurah store about 8.30am when he placed the socket set under his jumper. He left the store without paying, but was court on CCTV.
The socket set was recovered and Okey was fined $500 plus costs.
Crab cooker theft nets fine
A MANDURAH woman who stole a copper crab cooker from a stranger’s backyard late last year was fined $600 in Mandurah Magistrates Court on Friday. Michelle Valerie Cook pleaded guilty to stealing and trespass in relation to the December 13. 2014 incident which happened on Division Road.
The court heard Cook parked a vehicle outside the victim’s home before entering the property and removing the antique copper kettle and stand, which the prosecution said was worth $200. Police found the stolen item on January 16 during a search of Cook’s home.
Cook disputed the value of the kettle and told the court she was “going to put some plants in it”. She gave no reason for committing the offence.
The disability pensioner was also ordered to pay court costs.
Disorderly man caught in toilets
A MAN who stole adult magazines and locked himself in a female public toilet was fined $1100 in Mandurah Magistrates Court on Friday. Stanley Malcolm Douglas Farmer pleaded guilty to stealing and disorderly conduct in relation to the November 26, 2014 incident at Mandurah Forum.
The court heard Farmer took the magazines from a newsagency without paying before going to the nearby female toilets and entering a cubicle. The magazines were scattered on the floor, clearly visible to members of the public.
Counsel for Farmer said her client was ashamed of his behaviour and had been trying to attract the attention of centre security as he believed he was being chased by three men.
Farmer, who spent two months in custody after failing to appear for an earlier court date, was ordered to pay costs as well as the fine.