Sacked Coatbridge dental practice manager stole £120k of equipment from former employers

A former dental practice manager in Coatbridge has been caught stealing £120,000 worth of equipment from his previous workplace. Alan Thomson, aged 36, also attempted to transfer £50,000 from a savings account by impersonating his former boss. The shocking revelations were disclosed at Airdrie Sheriff Court, where Thomson admitted to committing the crimes due to a significant drug addiction and mounting debts.

Thomson’s criminal activities came to light when he was found guilty of stealing clothing and handbags while working as a manager at a TK Maxx store in Edinburgh. Despite receiving a fine for this offence, Thomson now faces the possibility of a prison sentence for his recent thefts and fraudulent actions. The court was informed that Thomson stole dental equipment, electrical items, and computer gear from Coatbridge Family Dental Care over a four-day period in July last year. Additionally, he engaged in a fraudulent scheme in August by pretending to be the male co-owner of the dental practice, aiming to transfer a substantial sum from the co-owner’s account.

After being dismissed from his position as practice manager for underperformance, Thomson resorted to illicit means to cover his debts. He provided access codes and keys to an accomplice who facilitated the theft of equipment from the dental practice. Thomson also attempted to carry out unauthorized transactions using the co-owner’s identity. Despite his admission of guilt, Thomson’s defence lawyer highlighted his client’s drug addiction as a contributing factor to his actions.

Sheriff Paul Haran has deferred Thomson’s sentencing until January to allow for background reports to be prepared. However, he cautioned Thomson that a custodial sentence is highly likely. This marks Thomson’s second encounter with the law this year, as he was previously fined for theft at TK Maxx. The court proceedings have shed light on the alarming extent of Thomson’s criminal activities and the consequences he may face as a result.

In summary, the case of Alan Thomson serves as a sobering reminder of the repercussions of succumbing to addiction and resorting to illegal actions to cope with personal challenges. The judicial system’s response to Thomson’s repeated offences highlights the severity of his actions and underscores the importance of addressing underlying issues such as addiction through appropriate channels.