A 60-year-old man caused alarm in Walsall town centre by behaving aggressively and shouting at members of the public while under the influence of alcohol. Thomas Stewart was seen shouting abusive language and ‘squaring up’ to people around 2.30pm on June 18. He was recorded on video by a witness, which later enabled police to identify him.
Later that afternoon, at approximately 4.40pm, Stewart entered a Heron Foods store on Bridgeman Street, where he picked up several items including a yoghurt, a vape device, and two tubs of butter. He placed these items on the till but became involved in a dispute with store security staff. Subsequently, he took the items and left the premises without paying.
He was followed and confronted regarding the theft, and he then returned the goods.
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During a hearing at Dudley Magistrates’ Court on July 30, Stewart pleaded guilty to theft from a shop and to using threatening and abusive words or behaviour likely to cause harassment, alarm, or distress. His defence attorney, Sheila Hicklin, explained that Stewart has underlying mental health and alcohol-related issues. She acknowledged that his behaviour while intoxicated was distressing for members of the public.
Stewart, who resides in Parkland Gardens, Walsall, has been released on conditional bail with an order not to enter Walsall town centre. He is due back in court for sentencing on September 28.