Magistrates have jailed a Watford man with “a flagrant disregard for court orders” who stole nearly £500 of alcohol from Waitrose.

Marius Carocea, of Leggatts Way, pleaded guilty at St Albans Magistrates' Court on Friday (November 22) to one charge of theft which happened in Southend on Sea two days earlier.

The 35-year-old, who according to court documents “is not for release as being held on immigration matters”, was given an eight-week prison sentence because the offence was deemed “so serious that only a custodial sentence can be justified”.

Carocea targeted Waitrose during a post-sentence supervision period and his previous “theft and dishonesty-related offending” was deemed an aggravating factor.

Court documents state that magistrates were “exercising their discretion” not to impose court costs as he has no form of income. However, a collection order has been made for a £154 surcharge, which must be paid by January 17.

No compensation was ordered as the alcohol was recovered.

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