A Mandurah truck driver in his mid 40s was handed a one-year community order after he stole more than $7000 worth of mobile phones and cash from stores across Perth.
Mark Alexander Lee Steere pleaded guilty to 12 counts of stealing, breaching his bail and careless driving when he appeared in the Mandurah Magistrates Court on Tuesday.
Prosecuting sergeant Mick Fallows told the court between January 30, 2016 and June 15, 2017, Lee Steere stole a number of Apple and Samsung mobile phones from Cash Converters and Big W stores in Mandurah, Gosnells, Armadale, Fremantle and Riverton.
He also stole a drill and plywood from Mandurah Bunnings worth $800 and cash from Target in Armadale ($240) and Victoria Park ($422.05).
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Senior sergeant Fallows said Lee Steere was charged with careless driving on October 19, 2016 when he tried to run another vehicle off the road.
Lee Steere conceded at one point his vehicle may have veered toward another.
The defence lawyer said Lee Steere’s behaviour was influenced by alcohol and his relationship breakdown.
Magistrate Martin Flynn told the court Lee Steere developed an expertise in stealing but understood he was doing it to help make ends meet.
Lee Steere was handed a 12-month community order, 120-hours community work and a $900 fine.