A teenager who stole cosmetics from a store in Pembroke Dock will appear at Swansea Crown Court next month for sentencing, after admitting a charge of theft.

Eighteen-year-old Elisha Hazel Callen, of St Martins Road, Monkton, appeared at Haverfordwest Magistrates Court, on Tuesday, to plead guilty to a charge of stealing items to the value of £57.41 from Tesco.

Prosecutor Vaughan Pritchard-Jones told the court that at around 3.30 pm on January 26, Ms Callen was seen to walk around the store in Pembroke Dock and put various items into her handbag, before entering the changing rooms with more items.

“There was lipstick, hair products and a pair of ladies underwear, and most items had been ripped from their packaging,” he explained.

“The aggravating factor is that she has a number of previous convictions for similar offences and is also subject to a suspended sentence from Swansea Crown Court,” added Mr. Pritchard-Jones.

Defence solicitor Katy Hanson said that in her own words, Ms Callen was ‘very disappointed’ with herself.

“She is very aware of the serious position she is in and fearful of returning to custody.

“When she came out of prison she found it very difficult to settle back, and around Christmas time fell back in with the same peer group.

“She suffers with anxiety and has sleeping problems. She is clearly a troubled young lady and has now re-engaged with probation,” added Ms Hanson, who said that her client had taken up a level one nail course in Saundersfoot to try and turn around her life.

Magistrates committed the case to Swansea Crown Court for sentencing, with Ms Callen, who was released on unconditional bail, ordered to appear for the hearing on March 23.