UK COMPUTERS STOLEN Shetland Thief Is Jailed - The Daily Record

Shetland Thief Is Jailed

Feb 29 2008 By Bob Dow

A SNEAK-THIEF who forced an island to change its way of life was jailed for two years yesterday.

John Gibson stole from so many homes on Shetland that islanders finally started locking their doors.

Gibson, 31, made a public apology yesterday after Lerwick Sheriff Court heard he stole kids' Christmas presents, a charity collection box, mailbags, bank cards and laptop computers while on bail for other offences.

Procurator fiscal Duncan Mackenzie said Gibson's offences between last September and February this year had "a continuing and damaging effect".

He added: "Because of his presence, people can no longer have their houses unlocked, but also have to lock themselves in."

Speaking from the dock, Gibson, of Leslie Road, Lerwick, said: "I put up my hands to what I did. I am ashamed of that."

Gibson also admitted stealing £5000 from a house in Lerwick last July.

Sheriff Graeme Napier said: "Nothing has stopped you offending.

"Prison gives some respite to the community."