This is the moment a drug addict attempted to steal a large quantity of cash from behind a post office security screen – by dragging it through the letter port using a long-handled spoon.
Jelanie Scott entered Hyson Green Post Office in Nottingham using crutches and approached a counter window at around 11.45am on February 10.
CCTV showed the 36-year-old then reach through a small gap at the bottom with a large metal serving spoon.
Reason For The Smoke
An alert counter assistant at a neighbouring window spotted the brazen attempt and went to move the cash before activating a panic alarm, which triggered the security smoke system.
How he Escaped
As smoke filled the post office, Scott fled the scene, watched on by startled customers.Â
How He Was Busted
But the would-be thief– who was recognised by police when they reviewed CCTV footage – left his debit card behind.
He was arrested nine days later after patrolling officers spotted him in the nearby Radford district.
Court Heard
Scott, of Forest Fields, Nottingham, admitted trying to steal the cash and told officers that he was suffering with his mental health.
He also said he had taken cocaine and heroin shortly before entering the post office.Â
The 36-year-old pleaded guilty to attempted burglary at Nottingham Magistrates Court last week.Â
Court Ruling
Scott was handed a community order comprising of a six-month drug rehabilitation programme and fined £50.
Scott must also pay a £114 victim surcharge and £85 court costs.
Sergeant Mark Southgate, of the City Central neighbourhood policing team, said: ‘There was overwhelming evidence in this case and I am pleased Scott has been held to account for his actions.
‘He told officers it was a stupid thing to do and I hope he now reflects on his behaviour and stays out of trouble.’
