A shop-lifter found his haul was useless when he discovered batteries were not included.

Christopher John Brockway, of Fleming Crescent, Haverfordwest, pleaded guilty to theft from a shop when he appeared at Haverfordwest magistrates court on Tuesday, February 12.

Abul Hussain, prosecuting, said Brockway, 38, was captured on CCTV as he entered Juice 33, Tenby, and took a £65 vape from a cabinet on September 7.

“He hid it under his clothing and left without making any offer of pavement.”

Mr Hussain added that Brockway had previous convictions for theft, and the item had not been recovered.

Jonathan Webb, defending, said Brockway admitted the offence when interviewed and had offered to repay the shop.

“Mr Brockway went into the shop for legitimate purposes. A display cabinet was unlocked and temptation got the better of him.

“The items were ultimately useless for Mr Brockway as it requires rechargeable batteries and a cable.”

Mr Webb added: “It was an opportunistic theft.”

Magistrates fined Brockway £80 and ordered him to pay £65 compensation.

He was also ordered to pay £85 court costs and a £30 surcharge.