A CARLISLE shoplifter who recently completed an alcohol-treatment programme stole booze from two shops within the space of ten minutes, a court heard.

A defence lawyer representing 35-year-old Jonathan Thompson told magistrates that he had committed the two theft offences while he was struggling to get by with no money and while he was feeling isolated over the Christmas period.

Thompson, of Milbourne Street, Carlisle, admitted both thefts and breaching the behaviour order.

Pamela Fee, prosecuting, said the defendant was seen entering the B&M Bargains store in Carlisle shortly after 2pm on December 29. This was something he was prohibited from doing under the terms of a criminal behaviour order imposed at an earlier court hearing.

"He went to the alcohol aisle, picked up a bottle of whisky and put it in his jacket," said Miss Fee.

Thompson then walked out of the store, making no attempt to pay.

He went to Home Bargains ten minutes later and placed a can of cider in his jacket before walking out of the store, again making no attempt to pay.

When interviewed, he admitted both thefts, saying he did it because he had no means of paying.

He confirmed being aware of the court-imposed criminal behaviour order and accepted he breached it by going to the first store.

John Smith, for Thompson, said the defendant completed an alcohol treatment requirement eight weeks ago.

The lawyer said that treatment appeared to have moderated Thompson's behaviour as he was not committing offences during the previous five months.

Mr Smith suggested the defendant would be suitable for a further alcohol treatment order.

The lawyer added: "He's gone off drinking spirits and said he's tried to confine his drinking to weekends, so he has moderated his behaviour as a result of the alcohol treatment requirement.

"So what's gone wrong at Christmas?

"His family is not in Carlisle; his family is in Ireland, so he's felt a little bit isolated.

"Also his benefits have been sanctioned; they just stopped his benefits completely. So he's had no money and he's felt isolated at Christmas and he went out stealing.

"But he sees the error of his ways."

Magistrates imposed a six-month community order.

This includes a 12-week 7pm to 7am curfew; five rehabilitation activity days, so Probation staff can help him with his benefits and alcohol abuse; and £85 costs along with a £95 victim surcharge.

Magistrates felt another alcohol-treatment programme was not necessary, since Thompson had recently completed one.