By the time a police van arrived he had calmed down, Ms Charleton said. Magistrates heard Fox had 10 convictions on his record including an offence of knife possession. Fox, of Drakes Way, pleaded guilty to being drunk and disorderly. He appeared in court via video link from the police station having been arrested on a warrant. Asked if he wanted to say anything in his own defence, Fox said: “I’m alright, thanks.” He was not working. The justices fined him £80 and ordered he pay £119 in costs and surcharge. Chairman of the bench Maryanne Burton said: “This is an order of the court. It’s not to be ignored otherwise the bailiffs will come calling to collect that £199.”
Defending, Mark Glendenning told the bench his client had laid low after receiving threats following the death of the man with whom she had committed the Tesco theft on January 22. “She is getting the blame from family members, who are causing her considerable difficulties. As a result of that she has been effectively absent or missing,” Mr Glendenning said. Symon was now back in stable accommodation and was reapplying for her benefits. Magistrates took no action on the breach and ordered she pay £18.29 compensation to Tesco. Chairman of the bench Maryanne Burton said: “This is entirely up to you. We can help you but you need to start helping yourself. These breach matters go back to July. You must start engaging with probation.