A Portadown man who stole over £5,000 in goods and cash from his employer has been given six months to “gather up restitution”.
The 26-year-old’s barrister told court: “He was supporting a young child, his partner and was expecting a baby at the time.”
Adam Kidd, of Ballybay View, appeared for sentencing on one count of theft by employee at Armagh Magistrates’, sitting at Newry, on Tuesday.
Prosecution outlined that on March 12, last year, police received a report from Discount Commodity Supplies in Armagh regarding theft of goods and cash by the defendant, an ex-employee.
This was believed to be in excess of £5,000. The manager of the store provided police with a list of outstanding accounts along with messages from the defendant.
When interviewed, Kidd made full admissions citing gambling issues and personal problems, saying that he wanted to provide for his family.
District Judge Eamonn King commented that one issue not mentioned in the pre-sentence report, prepared by probation, was that of restitution.
Defence barrister John McCann stated: “Mr Kidd has saved up £1,400. I know that is not the full amount but it is certainly a start.
“He was working there for three months and these offences were committed over a two month period. He fully accepts his guilt and there has been no prevarication whatsoever.”
He continued: “He was supporting a young child, his partner and was expecting a baby at the time. He was gambling his wages in hope that a big win would sort his financial problems.
“He was at his lowest ebb and took advantage of his employer. He is embarrassed and ashamed, he feels like he has let his family down and his employer down.”
Mr McCann added: “This offending has cost him his relationship, although he continues to support and see his sons.
“He does have concerns about his current employment, which will be up in the air upon the conclusion of these matters.”
District Judge Eamonn King deferred sentencing in the matter until April 20, of next year, to allow Kidd to “gather up restitution”.
He ordered that the defendant immediately lodge the £1,400 and start to gather the remaining £3,822. 57.
