Patient raided takeaway charity boxes after absconding from Sunderland hospital

Jamie Johnston left Hopewood Park, in Ryhope, Sunderland, where he was detained under the Mental Health Act, in February last year and headed to nearby branches of Greggs and KFC.

Newcastle Crown Court heard Johnston tried to climb over the counter at Greggs and was shouting, swearing and demanding money.

Staff were able to stop him getting over the counter although he stood on top of it and started eating a pack of sausage rolls he had picked up before leaving with a charity box, which he then left outside.

Johnston then headed to KFC where he he took another charity box, which ended up smashed on the floor.

He left with around £20 in notes from that box but around £32 in coins were dropped.

The shop had to close early and staff were left in fear.

Prosecutor Cainan Lonsdale told the court police detained Johnston in the car par, where they had to deploy PAVA spray to help restrain him.

Mr Lonsdale said: "Police had been made aware he had been in Hopewood Park before that and had absconded."

Johnston, 34, of no fixed address, admitted two charges of theft.

The court heard he has mental health disorders and a learning disability and is detained in hospital.

Medics have warned a prison sentence or community order could be disruptive to his treatment.

Judge Edward Bindloss sentenced Johnston to an absolute discharge.