A MOUNT Gambier man has had his request to be placed on a supervised suspended sentence bond granted after he pleaded guilty to stealing alcohol from a local bottle shop.
Matthew Scott Blenkiron, 34, appeared via video-link in the Mount Gambier Magistrates Court to be sentenced for theft.
The prosecution said Blenkiron was seen at Dan Murphy’s browsing stock, before leaving without paying for any items.
Staff reviewed security camera footage and saw the defendant place one can of premix alcohol in his pocket and another bottle of alcohol.
The items were valued at $18.50.
Blenkiron was arrested in relation to other charges and during police interview was asked about the theft offending.
Police recognised Blenkiron as the defendant in the security camera footage due to a distinctive tattoo.
Blenkiron said he did not recall the offending, but conceded the tattoo was similar to his own.
The defendant’s lawyer said his client had struggled with ice and alcohol, but was willing to take full responsibility for the theft by pleading guilty.
He indicated that Blenkiron needs support to overcome his problems.
Citing a lengthy criminal history, Magistrate Teresa Anderson said placing support systems around Blenkiron have not worked in the past.
“I think I would be setting him up to fail, he has been unable to comply with corrections in the past,” Magistrate Anderson said.
Blenkiron pleaded with the court to give him a chance to be supervised.
“It keeps me focused,” Blenkiron said.
Magistrate Anderson sentenced the defendant to one months and 26 days imprisonment and agreed to suspend the sentence.
Blenkiron was placed on a $500, 18-month good behaviour bond to be supervised for 11 months.
He was also ordered to pay $18.50 compensation to Dan Murphy’s.
