Thief broke into charity shop while 'off his head on drugs'

Despite the nature of Richard Singh's crimes, his solicitor Sundip Muria gave an impassioned plea to Wolverhampton Magistrates Court to let his client go free, just a month after the court heard that Singh is 'a really nice chap'.

On December 24, Singh pleaded guilty at the court to trespassing with intent to steal at the Cancer Research UK store on Stafford Street, Willenhall on December 22, a hearing at which solicitor Hina Paw made the comment, also saying that if he got bail and 'messed this up' he would only have himself to blame.

But just 11 days later, the 33-year-old found himself back behind bars for theft of items worth £133.50 from Sainsbury's in Raglan Street, Chapel Ash, and resisting a police constable in the execution of his duty at the store. He pleaded guilty to both offences.

On the first offence, prosecutor Mark Cooper told the court: "At around 10.55pm police were called to the Cancer Research charity shop.

"The defendant gave himself up to police and he was arrested.

"When he was interviewed he told officers he was off his head on prescription drugs and alcohol, and that he couldn't remember breaking into the store."

He said that Singh was seen taking razor blades from the

Chapel Ash Sainsbury's store and stopped by security and a PCSO.

"He was then taken to a staff room where he was further searched. He had to be handcuffed and was kicking out and screaming.

"The PCSO sustained graizing to his elbow."

Mr Muria, for Singh, said: "He has clearly tried to demonstrate to me his wish to turn things around.

"He is looking for you to have faith in him."

Magistrates handed Singh, of Wenlock Road, Aston, Birmingham, a 12-week prison sentence, suspended for 12 months, and ordered him to pay £430.