A THIEF who slapped a shop worker across the face after being confronted for his stealing has been placed on a curfew by magistrates.

Ben Keyte admitted assault by beating and three thefts from shops when he appeared at Worcester Magistrates Court. 

Owen Beale, prosecuting, said the 34-year-old had gone into the Tesco Express store in Pershore on December 3 last year, stealing food items before leaving. 

Worcester News: THIEF: Ben Keyte has been handed a curfew by city magistrates. Picture: FacebookTHIEF: Ben Keyte has been handed a curfew by city magistrates. Picture: Facebook (Image: Facebook)

Mr Beale said Keyte then returned and was confronted by shop worker Dale Connor, who witnessed the stealing. 

Mr Beale said Keyte picked up a bottle to steal it, before slapping the worker across his face knocking off his glasses when he tried to stop him.

"He ran out, knocking over a plant pot," the prosecutor added.

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Mr Beale said Keyte had previously pleaded not guilty to the charge of assault, which had given the shop worker the added stress of waiting to see if he would have to come to court to give evidence at a trial. 

Mr Beale said Keyte also returned to the store on December 29 when he stole three bottles of alcohol. 

The prosecutor added among his past offences was theft from a store in October last year. 

 

Magistrates hear Ben Keyte is 'trying to change his ways'

 

Chris Aggrey, defending, said his client had a drink problem, and was drinking eight cans a day which he was getting support for to help him cut down. 

Mr Aggrey said: "He has shown great remorse to me, he is ashamed of his actions.

"He is trying to change his ways. He still has a long way to go."

After lengthy deliberations Chris Mitchell, chairman of the magistrates bench, announced to the court Keyte was to receive a  four-month curfew. 

Worcester News: COURT: Ben Keyte appeared at Worcester Magistrates CourtCOURT: Ben Keyte appeared at Worcester Magistrates Court

The chairman explained the curfew meant Keyte had to be at his home address in Pendas Meadow, Pinvin, Pershore, nightly between the hours of 7pm and 7am. 

Keyte was ordered to pay £100 compensation to the victim, and total compensation to the shops for the items not recovered of £15.70. 

Keyte was also told to pay court costs of £200 and victim surcharge of £95.