A THIEF currently behind bars for burglary has been given a further eight-week prison sentence for stealing goods from supermarkets.

Liam McConnell, 28, admitted three charges of theft from a shop when he appeared via video link at Workington Magistrates’ Court from HMP Northumberland.

Outlining the case, Prosecutor Pamela Fee said McConnell entered Tesco in Whitehaven with an empty trolley at 7.20pm on May 16.

He started placing various items, including meat, crisps and cheese into the trolley. He then waited for someone to enter the store so he could go through the barrier. He left the store on the third attempt.

McConnell had stolen £223.93 worth of goods, the court was told.

Then on May 19, there was a further shoplifting incident, when McConnell entered Tesco in Whitehaven again at 10.30pm.

He picked up 18 cans of Budweiser worth £15.99 and ducked under the barrier with the items.

McConnell was interviewed by police on May 20 and gave ‘no comment’.

On June 6, the defendant entered Asda at Dunmail Park in Workington. Police were in the store in relation to different matters.

They were made aware of a male pushing a trolley full of items into the car park, who had refused to stop when asked. All of the items were recovered.

McConnell was interviewed by police but again gave ‘no comment’.

Mike Woolaghan, defending, said McConnell was currently serving a custodial sentence in relation to burglary. He committed the shoplifting offences while on a crown court community order.

Mr Woolaghan said the defendant would remain in custody until October 15.

Passing sentence, magistrates imposed an eight-week prison sentence, to run concurrently with his current sentence.

McConnell, of Gameriggs Road, Whitehaven, was also ordered to pay £236.92 in compensation to Tesco upon his release from prison.