A HOMELESS man returned to Wrexham town centre just two hours after being bailed on the condition not to.
David Gale, 19, of no fixed abode, appeared from custody before Wrexham Magistrates Court yesterday.
Justin Espie, prosecuting, said CCTV operators spotted Gale begging on Border Retail Park on Sunday.
Police officers attended and he was arrested on suspicion of begging after two witnesses told police he approached them while they were in their cars and asked for money for food.
He was bailed on the condition not to enter Wrexham town centre, but was spotted in the town by CCTV just two hours later and arrested for breach of bail.
Ceri Evans, defending, said: “It’s always a sad case when a teenage young man appears before the court charged with begging. He’s been homeless for some time and he and his mother rely on the night shelter and food from the Salvation Army.
“But those agencies are not available through the day on Sunday so it’s a hard day.
“He’d been in Wrexham with his mother and decided to ask people for money for food.
“Members of the public did not feel threatened but it was a nuisance.
“He says he will not approach others in future.
“On his release he took the chance to go into town and get food and that’s when the breach took place.”
Gale pleaded guilty to both offences and was given a £50 fine for begging, which was deemed served in light of his time in custody.
He was also ordered to pay a surcharge of £20.
No action was taken in respect of the bail breach.