Actions '˜strike at the very core' of trust in supplies

Laser sights, ballistic plates, various weapons sights, torches and harnesses were found when they raided Andrew Stevens’ properties.

The judge, Claudia Ackner, said the trio’s actions ‘strike at the very core’ of the trust placed in soldiers who maintain stores.

Prosecutor Adam Norris added that Davenport even admitted the kit was ‘in short supply’ when he initially denied theft.

An MOD spokesman said: ‘We have robust procedures to deter and prevent thefts which are constantly reviewed.’