A convicted murderer in Wales went on to steal nearly £4,000 in cash from a man’s coat pocket. The victim had withdrawn the funds to pay for the funeral of his ex-wife’s father. Paul Paginton, aged 50, successfully stole the majority of the money, which remains unrecovered. The theft took place in Newport town centre on May 8, when Paginton observed Anthony Lilwall withdrawing £4,000 from the Co-Op bank. Mr Lilwall had intended to use the money to assist his ex-wife in covering funeral expenses.
During a sentencing hearing at Cardiff Crown Court, it was revealed that Paginton was also present in the bank and noticed Mr Lilwall placing the cash in his coat pocket. Subsequently, Paginton followed Lilwall to a pub, where he approached him from behind, took the money from his pocket, and fled the scene. Prosecutor Martha Smith-Higgins stated that Paginton managed to steal £3,540, leaving £460 worth of £20 notes scattered on the pub floor. While Mr Lilwall recovered the notes, the larger sum was never found.
Paginton, who resides in Llanrumney, Cardiff, was arrested and later admitted to the theft charge. The court learned that he had a prior conviction for murder in 1997, resulting in a life sentence. Released on parole at the time of the theft, Paginton had a history of shoplifting and burglary offences. Defense barrister Neil Evans described his client’s “transient lifestyle” and preference for sleeping rough over provided accommodation. Paginton spent the stolen money on hotel stays and food.
Recorder Victoria Hillier sentenced Paginton to 18 weeks’ imprisonment, with a requirement to serve at least half of the term before parole consideration. Mr Lilwall expressed the significance of the stolen money to him, intending to use it for home improvements once repaid by his ex-wife. The defense characterised the theft as pickpocketing and an “opportunistic” act. Paginton’s criminal past and current offence paint a troubling picture of recidivism and its impact on the community.
As Paginton serves his sentence, the victims affected by his actions hope for justice and restitution in the aftermath of this distressing incident. The court’s decision reflects the severity of his offences and serves as a reminder of the consequences of criminal behaviour.