A man with "quite a history of shoplifting" has avoided another jail sentence for theft, after the court heard of improvements in his life.
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Anthony Cooper was sentenced in the Bendigo Magistrates' Court this week after pleading guilty to theft.
The court heard he entered Myer in Bendigo on February 28 and put a Calvin Klein shirt down his pants.
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When staff approached him, Cooper said he did not have anything.
He went through the anti-theft gates at the request of staff and they did not alarm, but he fled the store.
Police later found him in a nearby alleyway holding the stolen shirt, which was worth $70.
Magistrate Patrick Southey said Cooper had a history of stealing from shops, and had previously been imprisoned for it.
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But the court heard Cooper had an acquired brain injury and since the offence had gained the support of a social worker.
The social worker told the court Cooper had made significant positive progress.
Mr Southey convicted and fined Cooper $500, plus court costs.
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Natalie Croxon
Reporter at the Illawarra Mercury, mostly covering social affairs. Previously of the Bendigo Advertiser, Northern Daily Leader and Quirindi Advocate. Our Watch award winner.
Reporter at the Illawarra Mercury, mostly covering social affairs. Previously of the Bendigo Advertiser, Northern Daily Leader and Quirindi Advocate. Our Watch award winner.
