A DESPERATE thief who struck because he had not had any food for two days has won his freedom.
Burnley Magistrates heard how Francis John Duffy, 26, had been arrested on Christmas Day, was released at New Year, but then later ended up behind bars again.
Duffy, of Fleet Street, Nelson, was given a 12 month community rehabilitation order, with £30 compensation and £50 costs.
He admitted theft and failing to surrender and two damage charges. The bench told the defendant he genuinely seemed to want to improve his lifestyle.
Glen Smith, defending, said Duffy had recently spent 31 days in custody. He was anxious to alter his lifestyle.
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