Drug addict's '˜shame' over stealing nephew's games console

James Thomas Liptrot, 34, took the machine, valued at £300, to a Cash Generators store and received £70 in return, Wigan magistrates heard.

Within a short time Liptrot, who has self-confessed problems with drinking and amphetamines, had “squandered” the money, the court was told.

His sister, Chantelle Liptrot, later told police that her son Ethan had been “heartbroken” when he discovered the device was gone. Liptrot, of Hulme Grove, Leigh, admitted to a theft charge, dating back to March 7, and was given a six-week curfew by magistrates.

He was also ordered to complete a nine-month drug rehabilitation order and undertake 20 days of rehabilitation activities.

Prosecutor Katie Beattie said Miss Liptrot had been staying for a time with her parents, where the defendant was already living, while she was having some work done on her own property.

She left for a short break and on her return found her son’s X-Box console was missing, the court heard.

But when she rang around a few stores, she tracked it down and it was returned.

A probation officer told the court Liptrot was “embarrassed and ashamed” to talk about the theft. He admitted that, before then, he thought he had a good relationship with his sister and nephew.

Bob Topping, defending, said the defendant was glad the console had been returned and was full of remorse.