An Isle of Wight court has heard how two shoplifters targeted a Co-op store on multiple occasions.

One is now serving a suspended prison term and another waiting to to be sentenced.

Nina Hoskins, 39, and Gavin Buggs, 43, both of no fixed abode, pleaded guilty to theft offences at the Isle of Wight Magistrates’ Court on Friday, April 5.

Hoskins admitted six counts of theft from a shop and Buggs admitted his involvement in two of them, as well as breaching a community order and a conditional discharge.

Lauren Stone, prosecuting, said the pair targeted Co-op on West Street in Ryde, placing items into bags and leaving, making no attempt to pay.

Ms Stone told the court that:

  • On January 28, Hoskins stole chilled food, bakery items and alcohol to the value of £26.40.
  • On February 12, Hoskins stole chilled food and alcohol to the value of £19.50.
  • On February 13, Hoskins stole greeting cards, flowers and alcohol to the value of £22.55.
  • On February 16, Hoskins and Buggs stole bakery items and alcohol to the value of £19.55.
  • On February 18, Hoskins stole alcohol to the value of £27.30, before returning with Buggs to steal more alcohol worth £9.

Ms Stone said Hoskins has 12 previous convictions for 26 offences – including 14 thefts – and Buggs has 13 convictions for 29 offences – 11 of which were thefts.

By committing the thefts, Buggs was in breach of an 18-month community order, given to him on December 15, and a nine-month conditional discharge, issued on January 14.

Oscar Vincent, defending, said his clients are both experiencing homelessness, with no money and alcohol dependence.

Mr Vincent described Hoskins as ‘extremely vulnerable with complex needs’ and Buggs as an individual who suffers from depression and anxiety, among ‘other mental health concerns’.

Hoskins will return to court for sentencing, following the completion of a pre-sentence report, on May 21.

Buggs returned to court on Friday, April 12, and was handed his 'last opportunity' by magistrates, who sentenced him to 18 weeks custody, suspended for one year.

He must also pay £14.25 compensation to Co-op, complete a nine-month alcohol treatment plan and ten rehabilitation days.