CASPER, Wyo. — A Casper man was sentenced Wednesday for making off with three cartloads of electronics merchandise from the east-side Walmart last April.
James Lloyd Skinner, 37, will spend 18–36 months in prison after pleading guilty to felony theft in Natrona County District Court. At sentencing Wednesday, the state estimated the value of the stolen merchandise at $2,571. A charge of criminal trespassing was dropped: Skinner had previously been trespassed from all Walmarts for life.
The state was prepared to recommend a no-penitentiary sentence when Skinner changed his plea, but Skinner acquired new shoplifting charges in circuit court last month. Police say they caught him with about $393.05 of Home Depot merchandise on his person, including in his underwear.
Assistant District Attorney Jared Holbrook said Skinner had complied with the terms of bail and existing probation for a while, “but lately he has not been doing well.”
Skinner told the court about his recent family-related personal struggles and asked for another chance at probation. His mother and brother had submitted character reference letters to the court.
Judge Dan Forgey considered all the sentencing options available, and ultimately imposed the recommended 18-36 months.
Skinner, who had spent two days in jail on the offense last April, was remanded to the custody of the sheriff’s office.
