A DRUG addict who stole thousands of pounds from his parents and sold their jewellery at a pawn shop, has avoided jail.
Martin Bell, 32, of no fixed address, admitted at Basildon Magistrates’ Court five counts of theft and three of fraud by false representation.
Bell stole £2,200 from Christopher Bell and £1,500 belonging to Lorraine Bell between April and May.
He also admitted stealing jewellery, a camcorder, two watches, iPhone 4s, a 9ct gold ring, two gold rings and iPod Touch.
He then tried to sell a number of the items at a pawn shop for £305.
Bell was handed a community order and told to attend a drug project for six months.
He must also carry out 200 hours’ unpaid work.
His parents asked the court not to order compensation.
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