A suspected charity box thief has had a warrant issued for his arrest after he fled the court building.
Liam Hodgson had arrived at South East Northumberland Magistrates' Court for his hearing on Thursday morining.
But, the 32-year-old, who had travelled from Alnwick to Bedlington, was not prepared to hang around and left the building 30 minutes later and before his case was called on.
Now, a warrant has been issued for his arrest.
The court was told that Hodgson, of Cedar Grove, Alnwick, was facing a charge of theft by finding after he allegedly stole a charity box from Carlo's Fish and Chip shop, in his home town, on September 13 this year.
How much was in the box was unknown.
Alan Brown, defending, told magistrates: "He came to court and asked for us to represent him but, it seems, he's decided not to enjoy our company."
Prosecutor, Lorna Rimell, added: "It's a postal requisition, which was sent to his home address, I'd apply for a warrant without bail."
Magistrates agreed and an arrest warrant was issued.
When police catch-up with Hodgson, he will not be allowed bail until he has appeared in the dock to face the charge.
