A 43-year-old homeless man, Nathan Rann, was found guilty of stealing parts from several Mercedes vans across Dudley while misusing class A drugs.
Rann committed the thefts in multiple locations, including Brierley Hill, Kingswinford, and Stourbridge, according to information presented at Dudley Magistrates' Court.
Between 11 and 30 March, a bonnet visor and wind deflectors were taken from a Mercedes van in Kingswinford. Another Mercedes van in the same area had its front bumper stolen within the same period. On 22 March, a third van in Brierley Hill was targeted, with its bumper and two fog lights taken.
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The court was informed that Rann, accompanied by another individual, was observed driving to each site and removing these items from the vehicles. Additionally, Rann made an attempt to steal wooden pallets in Brierley Hill on 19 March.
Defending solicitor Andrew Brocklehurst explained that Rann was homeless at the time and experiencing an increase in class A drug misuse. He added that Rann is currently attending Atlantic House and has not offended since, expressing his intention to maintain a crime-free lifestyle.
Magistrate Sheila Dawson addressed Rann, acknowledging the offences were committed within a short timeframe and lamenting the impact on the local community.
In line with a pre-sentence report, the court imposed an 18-month community order on Rann, including a requirement to complete 20 rehabilitation activity days. He was also fined £40 and ordered to pay a £114 victim surcharge alongside £85 in court costs.