A MOUNT GAMBIER woman who stole four bottles of spirits from a city bottle shop while under the influence of methamphetamine has escaped conviction.
The 26-year-old woman appeared in the Mount Gambier Magistrates Court on Tuesday for dishonestly taking property without consent.
The prosecutor said the defendant entered a prominent Mount Gambier liquor store on June 21 at 2.15pm.
“The defendant stated she was on methamphetamine at the time and was making poor decisions,” the prosecutor said.
The defendant’s lawyer said their client was having a “particularly rough time” and was struggling with mental health issues.
“The defendant said the alcohol was to ‘numb the pain’ after recently ending an eight-year relationship,” the lawyer said.
“She advised it was out of character for her and she was disappointed with herself.
“She said she was doing everything she could and has underwent a mental health plan.”
The defendant’s lawyer said the accused was seeking a career in aged care and requested a matter without conviction.
Magistrate Jack Fahey took into consideration the defendant was at a “low point” in her life at the time of the offending.
“I cannot imagine how hard it would have been at the time but there is no excuse for stealing,” Magistrate Fahey said.
“It is a credit you have adopted a mental health plan and have ended your drug use.
“I think everyone is entitled to a second chance.”
Mr Fahey ordered the defendant to pay $258.99 in compensation to cover the cost of the alcohol.
