A 19-year-old woman has been given a suspended jail sentence after attempting to leave a Portadown supermarket without paying for over £700 worth of goods.

Maria Florina Varga, of Tandragee Road, Portadown, pleaded guilty to attempted theft of razors, electrical goods, biscuits and cosmetics at Craigavon Magistrates Court on Friday.

The court heard that on 18 July, police were called to Tesco on Meadow Lane after security staff detained Varga as she tried to leave with a trolley containing items valued at £731.97.

A prosecutor said security reported detaining a female for theft as she attempted to exit the store with the trolley of goods.

Varga's barrister, John Paul McCann, instructed by McCourt McGlone Solicitors, told the court that an initial theft charge had been reduced to attempted theft after representations to the Public Prosecution Service.

He said his client pleaded guilty and accepted responsibility at the earliest opportunity. McCann described the incident as a foolish act and noted the theft was not completed.

He added that Varga, who receives benefits, had been living in the jurisdiction with her parents and sister but plans to move to England soon.

District Judge Michael Ranaghan said he was glad the defence did not claim the offence was driven by duress or need, calling it a case of greed. He described the attempted theft of goods valued at over £700 as very significant.

The judge sentenced Varga to five months in prison, suspended for 12 months.