Sheffield shoplifter fled from security guards in a getaway car

Wayne Eric Hooton, 35, of Woodfarm Close, Stannington, Sheffield, stole two jackets from a TK Maxx store at Kilner Way Retail Park, Sheffield, when he was pursued by two security guards, according to a Sheffield Magistrates’ Court hearing.

Robert Coyne, prosecuting, told the hearing on March 19: “The defendant and a female made their way to a car parked in a disabled bay outside the front of the store and he got in the driver’s seat and drove away.

“Security guards having seen the offence ran out and tried to stop him by banging on the car windows and he drove away without due care and attention.”

Mr Coyne added Hooton set off at speed through the car park narrowly missing vehicles before turning towards Kilner Way and driving down the wrong side of the road and through a red traffic light.

Hooton, who has previous convictions, pleaded guilty to the theft and to driving without due care and attention after the offences on November 27.

Sarah Staniland, defending, said Hooton was extremely frightened about the security guards’ intentions and he drove away.

She added Hooton committed the theft for food at a time when he was not receiving benefits.

Magistrates sentenced Hooton to a six-month conditional discharge for the theft and ordered him to pay £158.98 compensation.

He was also fined £80 and must pay a £32 victim surcharge and his driving licence was endorsed with five points.