Some four years ago Lorna Creary was the subject of a BBC Radio Four documentary focusing on her support to sex workers. But today she was before a court having admitted a spate of thefts in Bristol.
Creary, 57, of no fixed address, pleaded guilty to three thefts of handbags and three thefts from shops. Judge Julian Lambert jailed her for 12 months.
He told Creary: "You are an incorrigible thief, which means you can't stop yourself. Handbag theft is serious, the victim impact is severe. It is often absolutely gut-wrenching."
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Nadeem Aullybocus, prosecuting, told Bristol Crown Court Creary stole perfumes and cosmetics from Boots in Broadmead in October last year. On the same day she stole a woman's handbag, which contained a key chain from 1979 of great sentimental value.
Mr Aullybocus said Creary stole more cosmetics from Boots in December last year, was arrested and made full admissions. But having been released on police bail in February she stole a woman's handbag from a city centre cafe and another woman's bag from Shipleys Bingo in Broadmead.
The court heard she had 58 court appearances for 174 offences. Matthew Comer, defending, said his client left home aged 14, went to London and started taking Class A drugs. He said that stayed with her and she amounted a long list of convictions.
Mr Comer told the court, though, that when drug-free his client undertook voluntary work, He said that, around four years ago, she was on a BBC Radio Four documentary having raised £2,000 to supply sex workers with condoms and hot drinks.
Mr Comer said his client was now completely drug-free and she wanted to make something of her life. He said: "I suggest that it is not too late."
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