Jail beckons for thieving Tonbridge postman John Christie

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A THIEVING postman who stole thousands of pounds' worth of mail from Tonbridge residents is facing jail.

John Christie pinched £2,000 of vouchers from post and packages bound for Tonbridge homes between March 29 and June 30 last year.

The 62-year-old, of Trench Road, pleaded guilty at Sevenoaks Magistrates' Court on Tuesday to four counts of theft and one count of opening mail.

Prosecuting for Royal Mail, Denis Bradley said: "He had been taking items willy-nilly over a period of three months.
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"There was a continued period of offending in a position of trust.

"The time came when investigations were carried out because it was quite clear packets were being opened and suspicion fell on Mr Christie."

The court heard Christie stole from packages sent by special delivery, including vouchers from Thomas Cook, Asda and other shops.

Bosses became suspicious of Christie following the spate of thefts and confronted him in an interview.

Christie, who had worked with the postal service for almost six years, admitted to opening and stealing mail.

Under interview he said: "I've been stealing items from Royal Mail, I don't know how long it's been but bits and pieces here and there."

Chairman of the Bench Hilary Burdis warned Christie he could be jailed because of the seriousness of the crime.

She said: "It's a complete breach of trust over a prolonged period.

"The offence is so serious we must consider a custodial sentence and if we need to impose a greater sentence, we will commit you to crown court for sentencing."

Peter Dommett, whose daughter Emilie had £50 stolen from her birthday card last year, said: "It's interesting to know there are issues within the system.

"I'm obviously very disappointed there's some dishonesty.

"My family have stopped sending cash to the children, because postmen could see the birthday card with bright colours, which could have money in it," added the Old Hadlow Road resident.

Christie will appear before magistrates again on April 8 for a pre-sentence report.

Royal Mail declined to comment.

[Pat Ostman]

Peter Dommett, whose daughter Emilie had £50 stolen from her birthday card last year, said: "It's interesting to know there are issues within the system.

Not really. There will always be dishonest people.

"My family have stopped sending cash to the children, because postmen could see the birthday card with bright colours, which could have money in it," added the Old Hadlow Road resident.

Always the postman huh?