A Birmingham man who stole £325 worth of items from Primark has been cautioned that his shoplifting offense could put his asylum claim in jeopardy.
Andargachew Hailu, 32, targeted the retail store in Birmingham on April 15. He appeared before Birmingham Magistrates' Court on May 19, requiring a translator, and pleaded guilty to one count of shop theft.
Hailu’s defense solicitor, Ms Farzana Begum, informed the court that Hailu’s family is in Ethiopia but that he has a pregnant girlfriend in the UK. He bought the stolen goods for her but needed a larger size, and she did not encourage the theft. Ms Begum described Hailu as financially struggling, unemployed, and receiving only £50 per week in allowance. She also stated that he suffers from depression and was extremely remorseful. The stolen items were recovered by a security guard.
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Deputy District Judge Olwen Davis imposed a reduced fine considering his exceptionally low income, ordering Hailu to pay a £50 fine, a £20 victim surcharge, and £40 in prosecution costs, totaling £110.
Judge Davis acknowledged a degree of planning in the theft but noted Hailu’s previously good character. She warned that even seemingly minor offenses could negatively impact his asylum claim and stressed the importance of avoiding further trouble. “You have a baby coming; you don’t want to lead a lifestyle that results in arrests,” she remarked.
Hailu, from Rugby, Warwickshire, now faces the challenge of rebuilding his future while navigating the consequences of his actions.