A serial Illawarra thief has been granted strict conditional bail after he was allegedly caught red-handed stealing women's makeup from Coles.
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Dylan Jones, 26, was already serving an intensive corrections order for shoplifting when he was busted in possession of two items of Maybelline-branded makeup on Wednesday afternoon.
Police will allege a loss prevention officer from the supermarket began monitoring Jones inside the Wollongong store after seeing his perusing the cosmetic aisle.
The officers later told police he saw Jones place several cosmetics inside his jacket pocket.
It is alleged Jones became suspicious of the officer and left some of the items in the store, but eventually walked out without paying for two items worth a combined $11.95.
The loss prevention officer stopped Jones, took him to a restricted area and contacted police.
Jones allegedly made full admission to leaving the store without paying for the goods.
Officers then searched him and allegedly discovered him in possession of a third item of makeup - a 30ml tube of Coral Colours foundation.
The officer confirmed Coles did not sell that brand.
When questioned, Jones told police it had been given to him by his "mate Dave" at Unanderra.
Police also discovered Jones was wanted for the stealing of a bottle of Captain Morgan rum from Charlie's Liquor Barn at Unanderra a month prior.
Court documents said in that matter, Jones had gone into the shop, picked up the bottle and placed it down the front of his pants.
He was allegedly confronted by the shop owner, who had had previous adverse interactions with Jones, and was kicked out of the store.
He did not pay for the rum in the process, police said.
Jones with subsequently charged with two counts of shoplifting and having suspected stolen goods in his custody.
He was remanded in custody and fronted Wollongong Local Court on Thursday where he applied for bail through his lawyer, Melea Mullard.
Police opposed Jones' application, describing him as a "habitual shoplifter" and noting he was already banned from entering several local shopping centres but continued to defy the orders.
Ms Mullard said Jones had been diagnosed with schizophrenia and custody was not a suitable place for him.
Magistrate Claire Girotto agreed to release Jones on strict bail akin to house arrest.
As part of his conditions, he must not leave the home unless accompanied by a nominated friend.
The case will return to court at a later date for plea or mention.
