A MAN who discarded a foil-lined bag at Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet has admitted going equipped for theft.

Alexander Stanco, 26, of Hugh Road, Coventry, previously pleaded guilty at the first opportunity to the charge, which happened on the afternoon of December 23, 2023.

Chester Magistrates Court heard on Monday, February 19 that the defendant claimed in police interview he had only gone to the Ellesmere Port retail complex with the intention of buying Christmas gifts.

He was handed a community order.

Prosecuting, Jessica Pridding said it was 3pm on December 23 when security guards at the retail complex informed police of the incident.

Stanco was found to have dropped the bag underneath a car in the car park, and security detained him.

The bag was a Guess carrier bag, but had a second, foil-lined bag inside.

In interview, the defendant said he didn't intend to steal.

The court heard Stanco had no previous convictions and one previous caution.

Stanco, representing himself with the assistance of an interpreter, said: "I am very sorry for what I did. It impacted me in a serious way."

The defendant was sentenced to a 12-month community order, to include 100 hours unpaid work. He must also pay £120 court costs and a £114 victim surcharge.