Alicia Cooper, from Kangaroo Flat, faced court charged with theft and criminal damage.

The mother of two was convicted and sentenced to a suspended 42-day jail term, but faced further trouble as she attempted to exit Bendigo Magistrates Court.

Police prosecutor Senior-Constable Len Ladner had told the court Cooper was in Echuca on January 25, 2007, with her de facto partner and brother, when the trio stole items valued at $100 from Target Country.

When arrested by police, Sen-Constable Ladner said Cooper broke the door of a recording device after being locked in an interview room at the police station.

Defence lawyer Lauren Macaulaynts yesnte told Magistrate Allan Spillane her client sought a community based order for her crimes, admitting Cooper went through a bad period last year.

"The start of 2007 can be described as a blur for Miss Cooper," Ms Macaulay said.

The court heard Cooper was taking up to 100 Xanax tablets each week, together with amphetamines and a large amount of alcohol.

In sentencing, Mr Spillane told Cooper her continued stealing would not be tolerated.

"Everyone is sick to death of your behaviour," he said.

Cooper attempted to respond, but Mr Spillane told the mother of two her reply was not needed.

Cooper became agitated and called the magistrate "disrespectful".

As she left court Cooper continued to stare at Mr Spillane, before the magistrate ordered court officials to stop her leaving.

"Your client is on the verge of serving two months' jail for contempt of court," he told Ms Macaulay.

"I expect an apology or you're going to jail," he warned Cooper.

Mr Spillane stood the matter down for several minutes, giving Cooper time to talk to her counsel.

Cooper returned quietly.

"I am sorry," she told the court.