Crook who stole scratchcards from two supermarkets caught after trying to collect his ‘winnings’
He won on ten stolen cards and went to other supermarkets to cash them in - but the cards were flagged as nicked
A CROOK who stole scratchcards from two supermarkets was caught after trying to collect his “winnings”.
Robert Bastin, 25, was disguised in a balaclava when he burgled a Tesco Express in Sidmouth, Devon.
He won on ten stolen cards and went to other shops to cash them in. But the cards were flagged as nicked, so the shops refused to pay out.
Cops were alerted and recognised Bastin from CCTV because he has 61 previous convictions.
They tracked him down to isolated Woodbury Common where he had a huge hoard of stolen scratchcards inside a stolen car.
Bastin fled into undergrowth but left a trail of stolen cards and was tasered as he tried to fight off police.
He had also burgled a Budgens in Exmouth after trying to cash in the cards.
Bastin stole a total of 2,700 scratchcards, whisky and champagne and loss and damage from the two raids totalled £8,500.
He admitted two burglaries and handling stolen goods and was jailed for two years at Exeter Crown Court.
Defence lawyer Lee Bremridge said Bastin worked as a gardener and his partner as a carer but they were struggling to support their five children because of cuts in benefits.
He said: “These were all attempts to make money. It was not for luxuries but to provide for his family.”
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