Last updated 13:18, Monday, 07 July 2008

A MAN who stole to order from the DIY store where he worked has won his appeal against a four-month prison sentence.

Barrow B&Q horticultural adviser David Stagg, 40, had got into debt after turning to drink and drugs when his marriage failed.

Stagg walked out of the store with items stolen to order after being threatened to repay money he owed.

But he was caught on the shop’s CCTV and later arrested.

Stagg, of Arnside Street, Barrow, was given a 120-day jail term after admitting theft at Furness Magistrates’ Court on June 26.

But he formally challenged the sentence and, after hearing details of the case at Preston Crown Court, Mr Recorder Alan Booth and two magistrates allowed his appeal.

Stagg was given a community order with 18 months’ supervision, to help him come to terms with his depression and sort his life out.

Stagg's barrister, Mr Charles Brown, said Stagg’s week in custody had been the “worst week of his life.”

Prosecutor Mr Julian Taylor told the court Stagg was caught on CCTV walking out of the store without paying on April 16.

When questioned, Stagg admitted he had done the same thing on April 1 and April 5.

Items including a power washer, hoover, and cushions were taken, and the total value of the goods was £1,092.76.

Mr Brown said Stagg had worked for the firm for 11 years and there had been a breach of trust.

“He was a man who could not really care whether or not he was caught,” said Mr Brown.

“He had descended to possibly the lowest point of his life.”

Mr Brown said Stagg had separated from his wife 18 months ago and turned to drink and illicit drugs.

It involved him spending money he did not have and he ended up in debt.

Threats had been made against him and his son.

Mr Brown said Stagg had valued his job and it would be difficult for him to find work in the future.

Stagg had brought shame on his family and while in a supermarket, he was seen by a former employee who shouted “thief” at him.

Stagg had served his country for six years and left the army as a lance corporal having chosen marriage over service life.