Nicholas James McWilliams pleads guilty to six counts of stealing, meth driving

A Logan man has blamed the “cost of living” crisis for stealing nearly $3,000 worth of groceries from Coles, carrying out a dash to the exit with a trolley on six occasions.

Nicholas James McWilliams pleads guilty to five counts of stealing, meth driving

A Logan man who swiped nearly $3000 worth of groceries from his local Coles supermarket claims his actions were spurred by his “cost of living” struggles.

Nicholas James McWilliams, 39, pleaded guilty in Beenleigh Magistrates Court on June 20, 2024, to six counts of stealing and one count of driving with methamphetamines and cannabis in his system.

Police prosecutor Stephen Cochrane said McWilliams had put large quantities of goods from Coles in trolleys and left the store without making payment on five occasions.

“He also stole alcohol from a nearby bottle shop,” Sgt Cochrane said.

“Coles suffered a loss of $2700.’’

The court heard Mr Williams had been banned from the Coles supermarket as a result.

McWilliams was also charged after police intercepted him driving with methamphetamines and cannabis in his system.

“He has no significant history, mostly drug use,” Sgt Cochrane said.

McWilliams’ lawyer said his stealing was because of his struggles with the cost of living.

“He is unemployed and has been struggling,” the lawyer said.

Magistrate Shane Elliott said McWilliams had a limited criminal history and his guilty plea was taken into consideration.

“Those who decide to steal are making it harder for people in the same position,” Mr Elliott said.

“The value of the property (stolen by McWilliams) is getting quite large.

“You’re making matters worse for yourself by ending up in court... There is always a job out there for you.’’

McWilliams was ordered to serve 12 months’ probation for all charges and was disqualified from driving for one month.

Convictions were recorded.