A Warwick man was bailed in Magistrates’ Court this morning after he admitted one charge of theft.

Dimetri Robinson, 37, pleaded guilty to stealing a bottle of Aristocrat Vodka, worth $20, from Lindo’s in Warwick on January 15. Crown prosecutor Larissa Burgess said that Robinson was stopped by the store manager, who had seen him take the bottle and hide it in the pocket of his trousers.

She added that Robinson initially claimed that the bottle was half-full and that he had brought it into the store.

A struggle ensued and Robinson was taken to Hamilton Police Station, where he admitted the offence.

Ms Burgess said that Robinson had several previous convictions for similar offences and had attended a drug treatment programme.

Robinson told the court that he needed help for a drinking problem. “I am an alcoholic,” he said. “I’ve been drinking since I was 18 and I need help. Westgate isn’t going to help me.”

Magistrate Khamisi Tokunbo set bail at $1,000, ordered a probation update and adjourned the matter for sentencing until January 30.

Also in Magistrates’ Court this morning, a Devonshire man opted to spend 30 days in prison rather than pay an outstanding fine.

Jamaka Gibbons, 37, owed about $450 but said that he was in no condition to pay the fine.

Mr Tokunbo sentenced him to 30 days’ imprisonment.