Man to defend himself against minor charges

A man will defend himself in court on minor shoplifting charges despite police saying they have CCTV footage of the alleged crime.

Sam James Smith appeared in the Whanganui District Court yesterday charged with shoplifting.

But he did not want to plead.

Police prosecutor Sergeant Stephen Butler told the court there was video evidence of Smith taking an item and concealing it with the help of an associate.

"The evidence against you is extremely strong," Judge David Cameron told Smith.

"I ask once again, do you wish to plead guilty today?"

A person standing in court who spoke on Smith's behalf then said: "He will not be making a plea."

The case will now go to trial.

"Mr Smith, I'm telling you if you do not engage a lawyer you will be representing yourself in a trial," Judge Cameron advised.

Smith will reappear on December 16 for trial.