A MAN with more than 40 criminal convictions stole washing tablets from a Co-Op because his benefits had been sanctioned.

Keanu Rhys Logan appeared at South Cumbria Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday accused of theft.

Prosecutor Pam Ward told magistrates that Logan, of Storey Square, Barrow had gone to the Co-Op store in Roose Road on July 15 and had stolen a quantity of washing items worth £20.

“He was seen picking up £20 of washing products, he concealed them on his person and walked out,” Mrs Ward said.

“He was tracked down after being identified on the store’s CCTV cameras.

“He was arrested and in interview he made full admissions.”

The court heard the items had not been recovered.

Defence solicitor Mike Graham said Logan’s Employment Support Allowance (ESA) had been stopped because of benefits sanctions.

Benefit sanctions are penalties imposed on claimants who do not meet conditions such as attending job centre meetings.

“He had problems regarding his benefits instalment; as a result he took items to try and raise some money to get some electricity.

“He is on ESA.

“He has mental health issues and he is getting professional help for that.”

The court heard 24-year-old Logan had 43 previous convictions. His last offence was in July 2019.

Logan pleaded guilty to theft.

He was fined £40 and ordered to pay £20 compensation to the Co-Op.

He was also ordered to pay £85 court costs and a £32 victim surcharge.