A SERIAL shoplifter, who has been targeting Alloa stores for months, has avoided a jail term.

Neil McGee, of Hallpark, Sauchie, appeared for sentencing at Alloa Sheriff Court having admitted a catalogue of thefts.

On November 16, at Tesco's Alloa supermarket, he stole a quantity of alcohol.

Then, on November 24, at the same store, he stole toys.

On January 23, at Morrisons supermarket, he stole a quantity of electronic cigarettes and alcohol.

The 42-year-old then stole a jacket from Peacocks on Shillinghill on February 5.

The next day, he stole alcohol from Morrisons.

Later that month, on February 20, at Tesco, he stole more alcohol.

He returned to the same supermarket, on February 27, and stole electrical items.

The next day, again at Tesco, he stole more electrical items.

On March 18, at the Co-op store, Tullibody Road, stole a quantity of air fresheners.

Then, on March 20, he breached his bail curfew conditions by being outwith his home after 7pm, the order having been imposed that same day.

Defence solicitor Nuala Devlin conceded her client has a significant record and there was a background of drug addiction.

Sheriff Neil Bowie imposed a community payback order with two years of supervision, drug treatment and a two-month restriction of liberty order.

Sentence was deferred on some of the offences until August 24 for good behaviour.