by Danielle Lappin

A THIEF turned himself in to Clydebank police after stealing cash from a local store.

Michael McElhinney, 22, who is listed as a prisoner of Low Moss Prison, appeared from custody at Dumbarton Sheriff Court last week and pleaded guilty to stealing £300 from Shop Local on Dumbarton Road, Dalmuir.

Fiscal depute Sarah Healing told the court: “On Saturday, January 14, 2017, the owner opened the shop and was working all day.

“In the afternoon he was aware of the accused entering. He bought various items and left.

“He then returned an hour later with the same people. The employee was counting the money.

“The accused saw this, approached, grabbed the money, amounting to £300 and left.”

Enquiries were carried out after the incident was reported to police.

The court heard that McElhinney attended Clydebank police office on his own after he became aware of police interest and wanted to speak to someone.

He was detained and interviewed and told them he was aware of the shop owner counting money at the time.

McElhinney, the court heard, told police he had been drinking and took the money before going to a friend’s house.

Sheriff William Gallacher told McElhinney: “Because of the nature of the charge and your record, I need a report.”

McElhinney was remanded in custody to appear when the case calls again on May 12.