Women set out to steal from Tesco

Gerald McArea (29), Woodville Street, Lurgan, admitted the theft of groceries valued at £229.75 on November 14 last year.

Maria Ward (30), Clanrolla Park, Craigavon, pleaded guilty to stealing goods to the value of £207.95.

Both were sentenced to three months in prison, suspended for two years.

McArea was also fined £150 and Ward £120.

The court heard that at 5.40pm they went into the Tesco store in Craigavon. They tried to leave with two trolleys of goods without paying.

McAree admitted it was her intention to steal items because she could not afford to pay for them and Ward said she had had a bad week.

District Judge, Mr Mervyn Bates, said that in each case there was a full week’s shopping or more involved.

A barrister representing both defendants said they made a foolish decision to go out and steal goods.