AN ISLE of Wight man stole a second box of Baileys during a mini theft spree hours after the first box was confiscated by police.

Andrew Taylor, of Barton Road, Newport, appeared before Isle of Wight magistrates on Friday (January 20).

The 42-year-old admitted three counts of theft in Newport, on November 23 of last year.

Prosecutor, Liz Miller, told the court that at approximately 9.46am, Taylor had entered New Look and within 35 seconds, he selected a coat to the value of £54.99 and left without paying.

She said a member of the public reported the theft to New Look staff, and on the same day, at approximately 4.15pm, Taylor entered Morrisons off South Street.

CCTV footage showed him taking a box of Baileys, valued at £77.94, and leaving without paying.

The court heard police officers later spotted Taylor drinking Baileys, and returned the box of bottles to Morrisons, where it was confirmed they had been stolen.

Ms Miller said Taylor returned to Morrisons at around 6pm and stole a second box of Baileys.

The second batch was not recovered.

Jim Osborne, defending, said Taylor was alcohol dependant and had been homeless at the time of the offence.

He said he had since contacted Inclusion and was waiting to be placed on a rehabilitation programme.

Mr Osborne told the bench Taylor had secured accommodation and things were looking bright for him.

He said he had been stealing to fuel his habit and had effectively been destitute on the streets.

Taylor saw his case adjourned to February 17 so a pre-sentence report could be drawn up.

He was granted unconditional bail.