Teen spared jail over crime spree

A Ramsey teenager’s narrowly avoided going to jail after a crime spree that saw her steal cars, wine, potatoes and money as well as attack a woman in the street.

Melissa Sarah Brew of Cronk Elfin appeared for sentencing before High Bailiff Jayne Hughes at Douglas Courthouse.

The 18 year old had previously admitted two counts of theft, two of taking cars without consent, two of resisting police officers, and one each of assaulting an officer, common assault, and criminal damage between September 26 and October 2.

The court hear she and her boyfriend stole a car and drove it to a farm shop in Sulby where she took money and potatoes, before the duo stole another car and went to a garage in Kirk Michael to steal a bottle of wine.

The teenager took pictures inside the stolen vehicles and posted them to Snapchat.

On October 2 she attacked a woman in the street, punching her and pulling her hair – the hearing was told she screamed and swore at her victim who took shelter in a nearby shop, and police had to use pepper spray twice to subdue her as she was arrested.

Mrs Hughes said she suspected Brew’s alcohol consumption was partly to blame for her offending as well as the relationship with her 27 year old boyfriend.

Brew was jailed for a total of 24 weeks, suspended for two years, banned from driving for 12 months, and banned from licensed premises or buying alcohol for six months.

Mrs Hughes also ordered her to pay a total of £521 in costs and compensation.