Brent James Kershaw faces Taree court for stealing, fraud and driving offences

In the grips of meth and alcohol addiction, a once successful real estate agent embarked on an “embarrassing” crime spree, including an odd stealing incident at Bunnings.

Taree courthouse

Once a successful real estate agent, a Mid-North Coast man spiralled out of control on meth and alcohol in what the magistrate described as an “unfortunate and embarrassing episode”.

Brent James Kershaw appeared in Taree Local Court on Monday to be sentenced for a range of larceny, fraud and driving offences.

Magistrate Allison Hawkins said the 40-year-old let himself “get out of control very quickly”.

She asked Kershaw’s lawyer if there had been a trigger that caused him to “fall apart”.

Kershaw indicated through his legal representative that a relationship break down sparked his descent into addiction.

His lawyer told the court Kershaw “previously worked and has been a successful real estate agent”.

Kershaw entered Taree Bunnings early in July and stole a Ryobi pruning saw, according to police facts in court documents.

Brent Kershaw leaves Taree Local Court

He tried to put the saw under his jacket, but it did not fit so he removed it from packaging and gave it another shot.

The saw fell from Kershaw’s jacket on numerous occasions before he eventually left the shop with it in his possession.

Kershaw also took a pair of Hard Yakka boots out of their box from Bunnings and placed them on his feet before he walked out.

In the same month, Kershaw was picked up driving without a licence.

Later, on August 15, Kershaw stole an $85 bottle of Scotch whisky from Taree IGA

A few days later, Kershaw engaged in fraud on Facebook Marketplace – posting a photo of a chainsaw he did not possess and selling it for $100.

Kershaw stole items from Bunnings.

It was heard in court that Kershaw had spent three nights remanded in custody following the most recent offences before being given bail.

During sentencing, Ms Hawkins told Kershaw: “It’s time to pick up your act.”

Kershaw was ordered to serve a 12-month community corrections order for two counts of larceny. He must attend rehabilitation.

He was fined $400 for dishonestly obtaining financial advantage and fined $500 and disqualified from driving for six months for driving without a licence – prior offence.

Convictions were recorded.