Man jailed for armed shoplifting attempt in Glasgow

The incident happened in October at a Lidl in Maryhill

Joseph McGrath (39) was jailed for 14 months after the incident
Author: Molly TulettPublished 28th Dec 2023

A man has been jailed for 14 months after being caught with a knife during a shoplifting attempt in Glasgow.

Joseph McGrath was spotted with the weapon at a Lidl in Maryhill on October 27, after staff caught him picking up four boxes of detergent, which cost £52.

Fiscal Mark Allan told Glasgow Sherriff Court the 39 year old made no attempt to pay for the items, which were later recovered, and police were contacted.

Mr Allan said: "Officers spoke to McGrath and they recovered a Stanley knife from his jacket pocket."

McGrath pleaded guilty to stealing and having a knife in a public place without a reasonable excuse or lawful authority.

The court was told by the defence that Mr McGrath “accepts full responsibility” for the crime.

Sheriff Tom Hughes stated to McGrath: "I have heard the circumstances as to what happened here.

"You have a poor record of previous convictions and I will take account that you are pleading guilty at the earliest opportunity."

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