Yodel Leek delivery driver stole packages and sold them

[TrueBlueTerrier]

http://www.stokesentinel.co.uk/Delivery ... story.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;


Leek delivery driver stole packages and sold them on to 'make ends meet'

COURIER Steven Thomas stole goods destined for customers and sold them on 'to make ends meet'.

The 52-year-old was a sub-contractor for delivery firm Yodel when he took items totaling more than £1,000.

His scam was uncovered when a security officer found empty packages in his van as she checked vehicles leaving the depot.

Magistrates at North Staffordshire Justice Centre heard he stole clothing, footwear and a mobile phone.

Prosecutor Lynne Warrington said: "A security officer stopped a van driven by Mr Thomas. She spoke to him and he appeared edgy and nervous.

"She searched the vehicle and found a package not registered as being on the van.

"She continued to search and found Yodel tape, which is against company policy, and a couple of empty packages under the driver's seat.

"Some of those contained invoices but no items. More empty bags were found in the rear of the empty vehicle."

The court heard the missing goods added up to £519, plus an iPhone worth £550.

Thomas, of Hall Avenue, Leek, told police he would scan items as he put them on the van, and sometimes there would be packages that were not on his delivery round.

But instead of handing them back, he kept them.

Magistrates heard he sold a top and shorts in Hanley for £20 to £30 each, and sold the iPhone for £80.

He also kept some items for himself.

Thomas, who has no previous convictions, pleaded guilty to a charge of theft from his employer.

Peter Howland, mitigating, said Thomas has been a self-employed courier for 12 years, and had been contracted by Yodel for two years.

Mr Howland said: "He found it difficult to get by on his income.

"His vehicle cost him £1,000 a month and diesel was £500 a month, and work was intermittent.

"He admits this is not the way he should have reacted. Perhaps he should have gone to the Citizens Advice Bureau to get advice about his debts that were building up.

"He is ashamed he has put this stain on his good character."

Magistrates fined Thomas £75 and ordered him to pay £600 compensation to Yodel.

He must also pay a further £285 in court costs and charges.