Derry Court: Man with 'extensive record' admitted theft of alcohol from local supermaket

A man who distracted a security guard before stealing alcohol from a local supermarket has appeared at Derry Magistrate's Court.

Eamonn Graham (31) of Duncreggan Road in Derry admitted a charge of stealing the alcohol on May 11 and a charge of disorderly behaviour on May 1.

Defence solicitor Paddy MacDermott said that a pre-sentence report would be required and asked for bail pending the preparation of the report.

A police officer opposed bail for Graham and told the court that the defendant was seen entering the supermarket and lifting alcohol. 

On the way out the court heard that Graham chatted to a security guard about a mobile phone in order to distract him before leaving without paying. 

The police officer said that the defendant had 'an extensive record' and added that he had only been on bail for 2 weeks before re-offending.

Mr MacDermott said that alcohol was the problem in relation to this defendant. 

Deputy District Judge Trevor Brown said that Graham presented 'a high nuisance value' but added he would release him on bail.

A pre-sentence report was ordered for July 14 and Graham was granted bail on condition he does not enter Tescos.