Man, 31, sentenced for fraud and theft offences in New Milton

A 31-year-old man from the New Forest has been sentenced after pleading guilty to multiple offences in New Milton.

Thomas James Gunner, of no fixed abode, appeared at Southampton Magistrates’ Court on Monday (18 November).

During the hearing, he was handed a 12-month community order and a rehabilitation activity requirement.

He was also ordered to pay £100 in compensation, £35 costs and a £114 victim surcharge.

The sentence comes after Gunner pleaded guilty to shoplifting, fraud by false representation, bicycle theft, common assault of an emergency worker and fail to surrender to police/court bail at the appointed time.

The incidents all took place in New Milton between January and August.

On 16 January, he stole £93.05 worth of cigarettes and alcohol from Tesco Express on Old Milton Road.

Then, the following day, he stole a mobile phone from the same store.

Inside the phone’s case were bank cards, which he then attempted, albeit unsuccessfully, to use at Morrisons Daily on Avenue Road.

Speaking following the sentencing, PC Chris Evans, of New Milton Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “I’m pleased that Gunner has been held accountable for his crimes.

“This type of behaviour will not be tolerated in our town and we will always work tirelessly to bring offenders before the courts.

“If you are thinking of committing similar offences in our town, please know that we will do everything we can to make sure you face the consequences for your actions.”