Thief blames medication for shop raid

A SHOPLIFTER who stole women’s make-up blamed his odd behaviour on painkillers he was taking.

Scott Maxwell appeared from custody at Livingston Sheriff Court sporting two black eyes and claimed he was on heavy medication to ease the pain.

He pleaded guilty to stealing more than £70 worth of cosmetics from Tesco in Livingston on Sunday.

Paul Beaton, prosecuting, said Maxwell was caught with the stolen items by police.

When challenged why he had stolen make-up, he told them: “Dinnae ask me why because I haven’t a clue.”

Glen Fraser, defending, said unemployed Maxwell had been treating himself for facial injuries he’d suffered in an assault. He told the court: “He believes the medication may have caused his odd behaviour.”

Sheriff Douglas Kinloch said: “This is the first time you’ve been before the court for shoplifting. There will be a fine of £200.”