iStockA man stole a trolley containing over £65,000 of whisky destined for Europe.
Paul Kellett also cost HMRC nearly £47,000 in lost duty from the theft in Cambuslang, South Lanarkshire, on January 22 2022.
The 45-year-old and an unidentified man used a piece of wood to break the gates of Mammoet Ferry Transport.
Kellett used an HGV cab to force his way into the premises.
Prosecutor Mark Allan told Glasgow Sheriff Court: “He was observed on CCTV driving the cab, attached the trolley, drive out of the yard and away.”
The hearing was told that three separate supplies of whisky totalling £65,926 was stolen.
Mr Allan said: “These were cases for export into Europe.
“The trolley was due to depart the docks at Hull and be transported to Amsterdam and across Europe from there.
“There is an issue in relation to VAT and duty that totals £46,791, the HMRC say.”
The trolley – valued at £30,000 – was found abandoned in a layby in Bradford four days later.
A raid on a warehouse in Whitburn, West Lothian, the following day recovered some of the stolen goods.
Kellett, of Leeds, was arrested almost a month later having been identified on CCTV.
Kellett pled guilty to forcing open a lockfast gate and stealing a trailer containing a quantity of alcohol.
His lawyer Ian Sievwright told the court: “This was a very serious offence given the valuations.”
Sentence was deferred pending background reports until next month by Sheriff Matthew Jackson KC.
He stated: “This is a serious matter and I will remand you in custody.”
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