A NORTH East man that caused thousands of pounds worth of damage to two vehicles has been ordered to pay nearly £600 after he was found guilty of criminal damage.

Stephen Rowe, 58, of Huddart Terrace, Birtley, Gateshead, appeared at South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court yesterday (April 25) – charged with two counts of criminal damage.

The charges relate to two separate incidents that occurred on September 2 last year, that saw Rowe attempt to destroy two cars in Birtley.

During the first incident, the 58-year-old attempted to destroy a black Audi – causing £1500 worth of damage to the vehicle.

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This incident was followed by a further incident that saw Rowe attack the windscreen of a Red Skoda – causing a further £300 in damage.

In court yesterday, Rowe pleaded guilty to both offences of criminal damage, and was handed down an £80 fine, ordered to pay a collective sum of £400 in compensation to his victims, a victim surcharge of £34 and costs to the Crown Prosecution Service of £85.

He must now pay the £599 total by May 9, 2022.

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