A NEWTOWN man who previously admitted multiple shop thefts failed to show up to court to be sentenced because he was “in hiding” after being attacked.
Mason Lee Cartwright, 22, previously appeared at Wrexham Magistrates’ Court earlier this month where he admitted a string of thefts from Tesco and Spar in Newtown between October 10 and December 27, 2023.
Cartwright was due to be sentenced at Welshpool Magistrates' Court on January 16, but an arrest warrant was issued when he failed to show up for that hearing.
He did appear at court on Tuesday, January 23, where he was told he would be given a “last chance”.
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Prosecutor Helen Tench said there were 10 offences in total related to theft, all of which Cartwright had previously entered guilty pleas to.
He admitted stealing items worth at least £240 which included alcohol, energy drinks, meat, food and three sets of headphones.
Mrs Tench said that in one of the theft incidents Cartwright barged past a member of staff. She said police gave chase but he ran away, before officers later caught up with him.
Cartwright this week admitted a further offence of failing to answer court bail on January 16.
Acting for the defendant, who had previously been living at the Bell Hotel in Newtown, Owain Jones urged magistrates to adjourn sentencing for a report.
“This coincided with a time when he was homeless and had no money,” said Mr Jones.
“He has pleaded guilty to all matters and he is lightly convicted besides.
“He has a nasty scar from an attack.
“He has been in hiding from a group of people; the attack happened a few days before his previous scheduled appearance."
Cynthia McVey, chair of the bench, told Cartwright: “You have gone to the wall here and this will be your last chance.
“You have numerous charges against you. Thefts affect shops and the whole community. We are very grateful to see your mother in court today.”
They granted Cartwright bail.
He must abide by a curfew daily from 7pm-7am. He will be sentenced on February 27.
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