A MAN failed to turn up for a court appearance because he was busy shoplifting.
Blackburn magistrates heard Usman Anwar was arrested and kept in custody to appear for both matters the following day.
Anwar, 29, of Godley Street, Burnley, pleaded guilty to stealing a bottle of wine from Morrisons in August and theft of three fragrances worth £42 from TK Maxx.
He was fined £80 and ordered to pay £33 victim surcharge.
Catherine Allan, prosecuting, said Anwar had been released on bail on the August matter.
“He was due to attend court yesterday but was otherwise engaged,” said Miss Allan. “At 4.44 pm he was shoplifting at TK Maxx in Burnley where he was detained after a short chase.”
Gareth Price, defending, said in the past his client had been addicted to heroin and crack cocaine but, through his own efforts, had beaten both. “As so often happens he has changed one addiction for another and alcohol has now become a problem,” said Mr Price.
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