Footballer tried to get Argos refunds for tablet computers he hadn't bought
A promising footballer landed himself in court after attempting to get refunds for tablet computers he did not purchase.
Alec Roberts, aged 25, of Linton Croft, Bilston, appeared at Wolverhampton Magistrates' Court on Thursday facing two separate charges of fraud.
He pleaded guilty at a June 24 appearance.
The court heard on May 10 he took one Kurio Tablet into the Bentley Bridge Argos, saying it had been purchased from there and he wanted a refund. He was issued a £199.99 Argos voucher.
Roberts then attempted to do the same three days later, taking two of the tablets to the store and asking for refunds.
However, Mr Roger Bleazard, prosecuting, said the tablets were no longer for sale at the store and staff were aware 50 had been 'robbed or stolen'. He was stopped by staff, and later questioned by police.
Roberts was going through 'a bad patch' at the time, the court heard, and is extremely remorseful for what he did.
He is working through a nine-week course which will lead to employment with a railway company, and is due to trial for the Sutton Coldfield football team for a 'semi professional career there', the court heard.
Judge Anita Price sentenced Roberts to 60 hours unpaid work as part of a 12 month community order, and he must pay £524 in costs, which includes £199.99 compensation for the Argos voucher issued.
