A Hamilton Parish man stole merchandise valued at thousands of dollars from three businesses during a series of break-ins, Magistrates’ Court heard.

Antonio Thompson, 46, admitted stealing items from the Rubis Warwick Gas Station and GEC Esso service station, also in Warwick, as well as from Ace wines and spirits in Smith’s, when he appeared in court yesterday.

He also pleaded guilty to stealing a black Yamaha motorbike and a licence plate. The court heard that the bike was reported missing on April 9.

Thompson broke into the Esso station on April 27 by smashing the front door with a hammer, stealing cigarettes, rolling paper and lighters, valued at more than $3,500.

Thompson then broke into the Rubis station and stole an unknown amount of tobacco products and candy on May 17.

He stole more tobacco products, valued at more than $4,300, from the liquor store on May 29.

While searching Thompson’s Cottage Hill Road residence in connection with an unrelated matter, police found the hammer and shoes seen in CCTV footage from the Esso station.

They also found the missing bike, which had a separate licence plate that was also stolen, near the home.

Prosecutor Yanique Gardener-Brown highlighted Thompson’s numerous convictions for similar offences, which date back to 2000.

Thompson apologised for his actions and told senior magistrate Maxanne Anderson that he suffered from anxiety and depression.

Ms Anderson ordered that a social inquiry report as well as a drug use and mental health assessment be written for Thompson.

She adjourned the case to July 19 for sentencing and remanded Thompson into custody until that time.

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