DNA hooked shop thief

A man smashed his way into Ninfield Stores and stole cigarettes and alcohol worth £700.

Shane Batkin, 26, of Glovers Lane, Bexhill, pleaded guilty to burglary when he appeared at Hastings Magistrates Court last week.

He also admitted stealing two packs of cheese, worth 4.78 from the One-Stop shop in Turkey Road, Bexhill, on August 28.

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Batkin spent Christmas behind bars after being remanded in custody for failing to turn up to an earlier court appearance.

The court was told that he had paid just 7 of an outstanding 567 fine for previous offences.

Mark Kateley, prosecuting, told magistrates: "This was a night time break-in at a village stores on December 10.

"Batkin broke a glass panel on the door to get in and helped himself to tobacco and spirits.

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"He was seen to return an hour later with a large hold-all and removed a large quantity of tobacco products.

"The value of the stolen goods was 700 and 497 damage was caused to the shop.

"Batkin was charged after police made a DNA match of blood found at the scene.

"He is known to the courts and has had a career of offending."

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Roland Crummy, defending, said: "This was a burglary of a non dwelling, which is different in seriousness to a dwelling."

Mr Crummy argued that Batkin was suitable for a programme of rehabilitation.

He said: "The difference is that he has been in custody and is now clear of drugs, which were causing the chaotic offending behaviour."

Magistrates remanded Batkin in custody to face trial at Crown Court at a later date.

Chairman Godfrey Daniel said: "We are remanding you in custody because of your criminal record and background and the fact you have breached bail on two previous occasions."

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