A SHOPLIFTER who stole meat successfully from a supermarket made further attempts to steal from different stores but was caught out both times.

Sharon Hodgson, 39, entered Asda on Moss Bay Road in Workington on October 13. She placed steaks and beef joints into a basket and then left the store without making payment.

Workington Magistrates’ Court was told that two days later, the defendant returned to the store. She put steaks and beef joints into a bag and left without paying.

Lee Dacre, prosecuting, said Hodgson attempted to steal steak and prawn cocktail from M&S in Workington on January 19.

She placed the items into a carrier bag and attempted to leave the store but was challenged by staff and dropped the bag.

Hodgson entered Asda at Dunmail Park in Workington on January 30. She took male grooming items and removed the security tag from the razers and placed them into a bag.

She was challenged by security staff when leaving the store.

Hodgson, of Pearl Road, Salterbeck, Workington, pleaded guilty to two charges of theft from a shop and two charges of attempted theft from a shop.

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John Cooper, defending, said: “It’s a guilty plea at the first opportunity. She has never been in trouble in her life before. It’s going to be her last as well.

“She is struggling financially. I know a lot of people are. She explains to police she has shoplifted successfully so takes two more.

“Following involvement with police, there have been no further allegations against her.

“She is a single mum. I think it’s highly unlikely you will see her again. It has been a shock. Being here today has been quite upsetting for her.”

Hodgson was fined £120 and must pay a total of £230.17 in compensation. She was ordered to pay £85 costs and a £48 victim surcharge.

Jeff Forster, lead magistrate, said: “You have got a record now. If there is a repeat of this, things will escalate so try to stay out of trouble."