A Shildon man who went on a months-long shoplifting spree – stealing everything from steak and coffee to Wallace and Gromit garden gnomes – has been sentenced at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates’ Court.
44-year-old Clinton Ross, of Thickley Terrace, admitted to eight counts of shoplifting, one of theft, and failing to attend court. Between May and September, he targeted shops across Newton Aycliffe, including Morrisons Daily, Woodham Service Station, One Beyond, Boyes, and Horndale Post Office.
Prosecutors said he stole nearly £200 worth of goods, including cleaning products, meat, cheese, and coffee – as well as five Wallace and Gromit-themed gnomes taken from a local garden.
His solicitor told the court Ross had been doing well with his recovery but relapsed after stopping his methadone prescription, leading to mounting drug debts and further offending.
District Judge Steven Hood gave Ross a 12-month community order, urging him to stay on his medication and work with probation, warning: “You’re in the last chance saloon with your partner – you have a lot to lose if you don’t sort yourself out.”