A 28-YEAR-OLD man attracted the attention of security staff when he went into an Accrington store carrying a lady’s handbag.

Blackburn Magistrates’ Court heard that when David Terrence Malacky Terrell was stopped his ‘accessory’ contained essentials for the well-equipped shoplifter – wire cutters, a magnet, and a screwdriver.

Terrell, of no fixed address, pleaded guilty to going equipped for theft, theft of a £369 mobile phone from the O2 shop, and three bail offences.

He was jailed for 10 weeks after defence solicitor Gareth Price invited the magistrates to impose an immediate custodial sentence.

“My client invites you to conclude that these matters cross the custody threshold and warrant an immediate prison sentence,” said Mr Price.

“He is without benefits, or an address and, because of his situation, he fears the worst.

“He says he needs some time in custody to get himself clean and come out with some chance of surviving in the community.”