Carl Wagner, a 39-year-old unemployed shoplifter from Dudley, broke down in tears at Dudley Magistrates' Court as he was fined £80 for a two-day theft spree at a One Stop store in Stratford-upon-Avon.
Theft Details
On June 25, Wagner stole a bottle of wine from the store, placing it in a carrier bag before leaving. The following day, he returned and stole a case of Corona beer and a can of Dragon Soop, which he concealed in his shorts pocket. While the Corona was recovered, the other items were not.
Police Interview
During police questioning, Wagner gave a largely 'no comment' interview, claiming he was 'too drunk to remember' the incidents. He pleaded guilty to two counts of theft from a shop at the July 9 hearing, representing himself.
Defense and Sentence
Wagner described the crimes as a 'mishap' and 'a blip,' stating he was adhering to alcohol support meetings and had stopped using drugs. Magistrates imposed an £80 fine, prompting an emotional response from Wagner, who resides on White City Road, Dudley.
