A man stole meat from a supermarket because he was struggling to survive with no cash, a court heard.
Paul Early, of Holme Park Court in Berry Brow, admitted the theft from the Co-op in Honley.
The offence took place on December 17, Kirklees magistrates were told.
Vanessa Schofield, prosecuting, said that Early stuffed £150 worth of meat into a carrier bag.
He left the store without paying for the items but was identified via the store’s CCTV footage.
Magistrates heard that the 45-year-old was recently released from prison.
Zara Begum, mitigating, said: “Since his release from prison he’s had no money or benefits.
“Due to an earlier missed appointment his benefits were sanctioned.
“He has got no family in the area and had nothing to live on.
“He was a very desperate man who found himself in a very desperate situation having no means whatsoever.”
Ms Begum said that Early has since discovered that the Welcome Centre can help him with food and support.
Magistrates adjourned sentencing until Thursday when Early faces another matter.
