A man who stole phones from people at pubs in Norfolk has been fined after he was arrested at Stansted Airport. 

Daravin Stanescu of Kingsley Walk, Grays, appeared at Norwich Magistrates’ court last Thursday charged with the thefts of two mobile phones from pubs in Thurton and Gillingham.

Stanescu was arrested last Wednesday at Stansted Airport in connection with the incidents which took place on June 26 in 2023.

READ MORE: Man jailed for theft of high-end gin from Jarrolds food hall

He was taken to Wymondham Police Station for questioning and was later charged.

He pleaded guilty to both incidents and at court was ordered to pay a total of £1,849 in compensation to the victims, a fine of £600 for the two offences and £205 in court costs and victim surcharges.

Investigating officer PC Berrisford said: “Distraction thefts can leave victims feeling targeted and vulnerable, and we encourage anyone to report incidents of this nature to us as soon as possible."