A TEENAGER lost his job after stealing eight cans of Red Bull from a convenience store while wearing his work uniform.

Darlington Magistrates’ Court heard Jordan Cornforth, 19, went into the shop to buy one can of the energy drink, but thought it was too expensive so decided to steal several of them.

Cornforth, of Eggleston View, Darlington, pleaded guilty to a charge of theft from a shop when he appeared at Darlington Magistrates’ Court today. (Tuesday)

Rachel Dodsworth, prosecuting, said Cornforth was a regular at the Sainsbury’s shop on Duke Street and was wearing his work uniform at the time of his offence on December 17.

She said: “The defendant took four cans from the drinks fridge, went to a different aisle and put them in his pockets and then went back to the drinks fridge, where he took another four cans.

“He again went back to the aisle and this time hid them down the front of his trousers before walking out.”

The store manager made enquiries with the shop whose uniform Cornforth was wearing and he was later arrested. He was immediately dismissed from his job.

Graeme Hunsley, mitigating, said the consequences of Cornforth’s actions had been quickly brought home to him.

Mr Hunsley added: “He has learned a fairly hard lesson and he has lost not only his good character but also his job.”

Stephen Bowder, chairman of the magistrates’ bench, told Cornforth: “This has had a significant impact on you and your life. We wish this to be the end of your offending.”

Cornforth was given a 12-month conditional discharge and ordered to pay compensation of £11.12 to Sainsbury’s. He must also pay court costs of £85 and a £15 victim surcharge.