Lee Dolphin, a 51-year-old from Coventry Road, Sheldon, has been fined £80 after admitting to shop theft at Birmingham Magistrates' Court on Tuesday, September 22. Dolphin stole 12 Dairy Milk bars worth £60 in July and a Starbucks drink in a second incident in August this year. The court ordered him to pay compensation to B&M Bargains, along with the fine and a £32 victim surcharge, which will be deducted from his Universal Credit at £20 per month.
Court hears of previous convictions
Prosecuting, Ms Riaz told the court: "The defendant has ten previous convictions - eight of which are theft related. They should be taken into account when sentencing." Dolphin pleaded guilty to both thefts, which occurred at B&M Bargains stores in Birmingham.
The court also heard that Dolphin is currently receiving support from Change Grow Live, a drug clinic. His solicitor, Mr Hassan, highlighted that Dolphin is attending the clinic voluntarily and has been doing so for several weeks.
Solicitor calls for help over punishment
Mr Hassan said: "The defendant is receiving treatment at Change Grow Live, a drug clinic. He is attending voluntarily, he has been for several weeks. He is being assisted by a police officer, he uses drugs and is receiving help. He is going to receive further help from those establishments."
He added: "He made a full and frank admission in interview. His last conviction was in 2024, he has been out of trouble since then. Unfortunately things took a turn due to family issues, which brings him back here again today. I respectfully submit he needs help, not punishment."
Financial penalty and compensation
Magistrates ordered Dolphin to pay compensation to B&M for the stolen goods, alongside the £80 fine and the victim surcharge. The total amount will be recovered through deductions from his Universal Credit payments at a rate of £20 per month, ensuring the debt is cleared over several months.
The case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by individuals with drug addiction and the court's approach to balancing punishment with rehabilitation. Dolphin's attendance at the drug clinic and his cooperation with police were noted during sentencing, though the financial penalty stands as a consequence of his actions.
