A WOMAN who stole a £280 electrical razor from a Chester store and swore at police before and after she was arrested has been handed a 12-month community order.

Samantha Hall, 33, of no fixed abode, had earlier pleaded guilty to the theft and abusive behaviour.

Prosecuting at Chester Magistrates Court on Friday, August 23, Natalie Cassidy said the theft occurred at the Boots store in Foregate Street, Chester on August 6, where Hall had committed the theft with a man.

On August 14, Hall was swearing at police officers in full view of members of the public, and she was arrested.

She became aggressive during police interview and mocked them, saying she did not recognise the officers' authority and that only her father could discipline her.

The interview concluded with Hall abusing police in general.

She had one previous conviction for handling stolen goods in 2013, the court heard.

A pre-sentence report had been compiled recommending Hall be placed on a community order.

Defending, Howard Jones said Hall was quite a vulnerable individual and was on Universal Credit.

Hall was handed a 12-month community order with 20 days of a rehabilitation activity requirement, for probation services to address her underlying issues.

She was fined £60 and ordered to pay £140 compensation to Boots, but no court costs or victim surcharge were ordered due to Hall's financial situation.

Having not turned up in time for her original sentencing date on Thursday – meaning the case was adjourned until Friday – Hall was warned by magistrates to make it her top priority to attend the probation appointments on time.