Thief stole fuel to keep warm

A thief who stole diesel from two garages was sleeping in his van and needed fuel to keep warm, a court heard.
Burnley Magistrates' CourtBurnley Magistrates' Court
Burnley Magistrates' Court

Shaun Khan (47) had split from his partner, had little money and was at a very low ebb when he struck twice at Kitchen’s Garage, Burnley, and twice at Springbank Service Station in Nelson.

Father-of-three Khan, who has a marquee hire business, said to be currently “on the back burner,” has 44 previous offences on his record, but had been on the straight and narrow since 2000.

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The defendant, of Colne Road, Burnley, admitted four counts of making off without payment, involving fuel worth £10.26 and £6.99 from Kitchen’s, last December 23rd and March 24th and also diesel to the value of £10.36 and £12.38 from Nelson, on January 5th and 26th.

He was fined £120 and must pay £17.25 and £22.74 compensation.

Mrs Tracy Yates, prosecuting, said the defendant was traced through CCTV and his vehicle registration. He told police he was sleeping in his van and needed fuel to keep warm.

Mr Geoff Ireland, defending, said Khan had very little money, was struggling physically and mentally and was currently taking medication for depression and anxiety.