Teenage shoplifter chased along street by Tesco staff

A Dunfermline teenager caught stealing from Tesco’s town centre store was chased along the street by security staff.

Police saw the pursuit and joined in, resulting in an appearance from custody at Dunfermline Sheriff Court for James Haggerty (18), of the James Bank Hostel.

He admitted that on 23rd July at Tesco, Winterthur Lane, whilst acting with another person, he stole a quantity of DVDs.

He also admitted that at Dunfermline police station he behaved in a threatening or abusive manner by uttering threats.

Depute fiscal Dev Kapadia said, “The accused and another male were seen acting suspiciously within the store. Security staff formed the view they were engaging in theft.

“They were challenged and they ran out the store challenged by security officers.

“They ran past a police vehicle and officers saw them being chased carrying items.”

Haggerty ignored calls for him to stop but he was eventually detained although his accomplice disappeared. The value of the stolen DVDs was £153.

“Initially he told police he had stolen the goods because he needed money for food but he later changed his story saying it was to pay off a drugs debt,” added the depute.

Later when taken to the police station, Haggerty threatened officers be saying he would “get the travellers down to sort them out”.

Sheriff John Rafferty called for reports and remanded Haggerty in custody. He will return to court for sentencing on 16th August.