Local man jailed for food theft

A man from Newtown has been sentenced to 14 weeks in jail for stealing food from establishments in the town.

Mason Cartwright, 22, of no fixed abode, stole hot chicken pasta pots from Greggs on High Street in Newtown on two occasions in October, as well as items from Bradley’s Garage amounting to £6.99. Similar thefts were carried out on September 19 as well.

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According to the Powys County Times, prosecutors noted that Cartwright's thefts were a second breach of a suspended sentence. He was seen taking items without paying and was identified through CCTV footage.

During the court proceedings, Gurleen Kaur, defending Mr Cartwright, explained that he resorted to theft because his Universal Credit was withdrawn due to a change of address. She emphasized that it was done out of necessity as he had no other means to eat.

Despite the defense's plea to issue a financial penalty, magistrates decided to activate Mr Cartwright's suspended sentence and sentenced him to 14 weeks in jail.

Mr Cartwright was also ordered to pay compensation to the affected stores but no victim surcharge was imposed.