A DRUG addict could find himself in jail after admitting a shoplifting spree days before Christmas.
Hartlepool magistrates heard how Brian Paul Gough, 33, was caught stealing baby clothes from the Ethel Austin shop, in Middlesbrough town centre, and cosmetics from the nearby TJ Hughes store, on December 15 last year.
He was seen placing the baby clothes in a female accomplice's shopping bag before walking out of the store.
He was immediately arrested and admitted the offence. His accomplice was given an £80 fixed penalty notice.
However, on December 22, Gough, of Inglefield, Hartlepool, was caught stealing a bottle of body gel, worth £9.99, from the Superdrug store in Hartlepool.
He admitted the offence and said he had had no intention of paying for the item.
Magistrates heard Gough had a long-term drug problem and a number of previous convictions.
The case was adjourned until February 2 for pre-sentence reports, but Gough was told the case could be sent to Teesside Crown Court and that he could be given a hefty community service punishment, or even a custodial sentence.
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