‘Stupid’: Norma Jane Lawson runs jail gauntlet by shoplifting alcohol

A Central Queensland mother of three risked a jail sentence when she shoplifted two cans of Jack Daniels worth $16.

A Central Queensland mum made a stupid decision to shoplift two cans of Jack Daniels from a Rockhampton store. Generic image.

A Central Queensland mother of three risked getting a jail sentence when she decided to shoplift two cans of alcohol worth $16.

Norma Jane Lawson, 28, pleaded guilty in Biloela Magistrates Court on January 19 to the offence.

As the matter was heard in court, it was made clear to Lawson, who had a 14-page criminal history described as “appalling”, how lucky she was that she had not been charged with stealing.

Lawson’s offending occurred on October 27 last year at Rockhampton when she went to a First Choice Liquor store in Bolsover Street.

Police Prosecutor Brandy Butler said about 3.30pm on that day, Lawson entered the store and walked to the “ready to drink” fridge where she took two cans of Jack Daniels.

Ms Butler said Lawson concealed the items under her clothes and left the store without paying.

This was captured on CCTV security footage which was viewed by police.

Ms Butler said when Biloela police later attended Lawson’s residence, she made full admissions to the offending.

Lawson told police that on the day of the offending she had been distraught due to a personal situation.

She further told officers that she had regretted what she had done and she had “fallen back into bad habits” because of the events of the day.

Ms Butler described Lawson’s 14-page criminal history as “appalling” saying she had previously received a jail sentence for stealing offences.

Solicitor Pierre Lammersdorf said Lawson was a mother of three children who had a limited education, only being schooled to Year 7.

“She’s struggled with drugs and alcohol for the majority of her life,” Mr Lammersdorf said.

“Your Honour will see her criminal history - it’s an unenviable history.

“But she’s been of good behaviour within the last three years, Your Honour, so she’s come a little way in that regard.”

Mr Lammersdorf said Lawson was fortunate here as the charge was a “fine only” offence.

That was emphasised by Magistrate Philippa Beckinsale who said Lawson could have been charged with stealing and her offending was “stupid”.

Mr Lammersdorf replied: “She could have been, correct Your Honour.

“I have warned my client in no uncertain terms, that if she would have been charged with stealing, as could have been the case here Your Honour, she’s likely to be looking at a term of imprisonment.”

Ms Beckinsale fined Lawson $250 and a conviction was recorded.

Ms Butler, when asked, indicated she did not have instructions in relation to restitution and therefore, none was sought.