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22
Mar
Woman admits using de-tagging device to steal clothes from Harrogate shop
A woman appeared at Harrogate Magistrates Court charged with several offences on Thursday (March 20).
Kerry Mawson, who lives in the Harrogate area, pleaded guilty to one count of theft from a shop, one count of possessing cocaine, one count of possessing heroin and one count of going equipped for theft.
Mel Ibbotson, prosecuting, told the court Mawson entered Sports Direct in Harrogate on January 24 this year.
The court heard the defendant took five tracksuits into the changing rooms but only came out with three.
The security guards stopped Mawson and called the police, who found she had a security de-tagger and the drugs in her possession.
Ms Ibbotson said the 39-year-old defendant admitted the offences when she was interviewed by the police.
Mawson told officers she used the device to remove the tags on the tracksuits, which she was going to give to her to children.
The value of the goods stolen was £105.98 but they were recovered.
Defendant was 'exploited', court hears
Sean Wilson, defending, told the court Mawson has not lived in North Yorkshire for a long time.
The court heard she was moved here by a police force in the Midlands after being exploited.
Mr Wilson shared the details of the ordeal in court, but the Stray Ferret has chosen not to reveal them for safety reasons.
The court heard Mawson has “severe” mental health issues, including depression and anxiety.
Mr Wilson added:
She is by herself. It was a desperate bid to get something for her children and she used the de-tagging device.
The case was adjourned until May 9 for a pre-sentence report to be prepared.
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