A homeless man who stole coins from a children’s charity collection point in Tenby has been charged in court.
Forty-five-year-old Andrew James Jones, appeared at Haverfordwest Magistrates Court, on Monday to plead guilty to stealing £5.59 belonging to the Ty Hafan Children’s Charity.
Prosecutor Megan Gilchrist told the court that the defendant was spotted shortly before 2pm on Sunday, at the charity drop, situated near to St. Mary’s Church, sweeping the money towards him with a blue brush, and placing coins into his pocket.
Mr. Jones was told by a passer-by to return the coinage, but he only put some back.
Police officers attended and arrested the defendant who was smelling strongly of alcohol and unsteady on his feet.
Defence solicitor Jonathan Webb told the court that Mr. Jones had been drinking heavily that day and was extremely embarrassed and ashamed of his actions and wished to apologise to the Ty Hafan charity.
Magistrates gave Mr. Jones an 18 month conditional discharge and he was ordered to pay prosecuton costs of £85 and a £20 victim surcharge.