'Model' employee stole valuable equipment
Richard Hine, of Walters Close, Cold Ash, was caught after offering two pieces of valuable survey equipment for sale on the online market place eBay, the court was told.
Claire French, prosecuting, said the 26-year-old was working as a stock controller at Opti-
Cal Survey Equipment in Aldermaston when he betrayed his employers’ trust by stealing the equipment.
She added: “He put them at the back door of the warehouse for an accomplice to collect.”
Mr Hine, who has been cautioned for a previous, unrelated offence, admitted stealing the equipment, worth £12,000, between August 2 and April 13 this year.
Mike Davis, defending, said: “This enterprise was not his idea but that of another. However, instead of refusing, he foolishly went along with it.
“He put the items on eBay to test their market value, but these are fairly rare and expensive items and the managing director saw them.
“The items have since been recovered.”
Mr Davis said his previous employers had written references on his behalf and added: “They speak highly of his integrity and honesty and express huge surprise he is before the court on such a serious charge.”
Mr Hine’s aunt, Angela Page, gave evidence on her nephew’s behalf, expressing the family’s shock and bewilderment at his behaviour.
She concluded: “He is very remorseful and this really is out of character.”
The court also heard that Mr Hine had been under immense personal pressure and had been battling depression.
After adjourning for pre-sentence reports to be prepared, magistrates reconvened and made Mr Hine subect to a 12- month community order with 250 hours’ unpaid work requirement.
In addition he was ordered to pay £85 costs with £60 surcharge.