Cradley Heath thief steals Help for Heroes tin
It's got to be one of the most despicable crimes: A thief buying food from a chip shop swiped a collection box set up to raise cash for injured soldiers.
Paul Hopper took the Help for Heroes tin from the counter at the Causeway Fish Bar, Oldbury, on December 13.
The box contained between £50 and £100 which had been donated to the charity by generous customers.
Sandwell Magistrates Court yesterday heard the owner of the shop reported the theft once it was realised the tin was missing.
CCTV was then used to identify Hopper, aged 46, of Victoria Road, Cradley Heath, and he was arrested by officers.
Hopper, who is currently claiming benefits, pleaded guilty to a count of theft during the hearing.
He was fined £110 and ordered to pay compensation of £75 which will be forwarded to the Help for Heroes charity.
Hopper will also have to pay £85 court costs and a £20 victim surcharge.
The court heard when arrested by officers he had admitted the theft.
Mrs Kelly Crowe, prosecuting, said: "Hopper was in the shop at the time purchasing fish and chips.
"During the course of the transaction he took the charity box which was on the counter.
"Staff said between £50 and £100 had been raised for the charity."
Mr Milo Turner, defending, said: "He has pleaded guilty at the first opportunity. Last year he suffered a severe injury and lost the sight in one eye."
