JOBLESS Ariel Firut stole batteries and a hand mixer from Spalding’s Poundstretcher store to help pay his rent.
Prosecutor Rebecca Ritson said Firut’s rucksack was searched and it contained items stolen from Poundstretcher and he initially told police he had found the rucksack in the car park.
But police inquiries continued and CCTV footage from Poundstretcher showed Firut stealing the items.
Solicitor Mike Alexander said Firut had been without a job for three months and on the day of the theft, November 16, his rent was due.
Mr Alexander said: “He was already behind with his rent and didn’t know how to survive.
“Since the theft, his mother has sent him some money and his friends have rallied round and helped out.
“Normally, when he’s in work, he sends his mother money. As a normal family would do, they look after each other.”
Firut (22), of Double Street, Spalding, pleaded guilty to stealing items worth £37.12 and was conditionally discharged for two years when he appeared before Spalding magistrates on Thursday. He must pay £85 costs.
Presiding magistrate Madge Marshall-Brown told him: “We understand the circumstances, but you know that stealing will not solve problems.”