A THIEF broke into a woman’s car, stole her handbag and £1300 worth of jewellery before pawning it. 

Alistair Wyper, of Miller Terrace, Maybole owned up to stealing the bag and its contents, in September last year before selling it to a jewellers in Irvine’s Riverside Shopping Centre.

The 31-year-old appeared before Sheriff Mhari Mactaggart at Ayr Sheriff Court last week. The court heard how the complainer had parked her car outside her property.

Depute fiscal Lorri Pidgeon, said: “The following day the woman went outside and noticed her car had been broken into. She had left her bag in her car and had gone back to get it the next day.

“There was jewellery inside which had been taken to a jewellers in Irvine. She went to the shop and identified some of the items as being hers. 

“The accused had pawned the jewellery and had used his drivers licence as a form of ID. Police were unable to trace the accused and information provided confirmed that the items were worth £1300.” 

The court heard how the woman had already had £1100 worth of her bling returned to her.

Speaking on his behalf, defence solicitor, Mr Hollman, said: “Mr Wyper has been suffering some personal issues which has been filed in the report.

“He used his own licence in order to get the cash. But he does not understand why there not been a full recovery made as he sold all the jewellery to the same shop.

“He made a self reference to the social work and mental health team and says he has been on a downwards spiral as he has had some financial issues.”

Addressing the dock, Sheriff Mactaggart, said: “You have to appreciate that a matter as serious as this could result in a custodial sentence from the court.

“Today, however, I feel it is better that you address yours issues, and I am prepared to step back from a custodial sentence.”

Wyper has been fined £200 compensation to the woman he stole the finery from. He will also complete 12 months CPO under supervision and 150 hours unpaid work.