Here are 12 people jailed or given suspended sentences for offences in and arund South Tyneside last month.
They all pleaded guilty at Newcastle Crown Court, unless otherwise stated.
5. Gemma Campbell
Campbell, 38, of Downham Court, South Shields, admitted two offences of theft and one each of burglary and handling stolen goods. She was sentenced to two years imprisonment, suspended for 18 months, with drug rehabilitation requirements Photo: NOP
6. Audra Ames
Ames, 51, of Stoddart Street, South Shields, admitted burglary and theft abd was sentenced to 16 months imprisonment, suspended for 18 months, with rehabilitation requirements and 100 hours unpaid work Photo: NOP
7. Christopher Hay
Hay, 37, of Brabourne Street, Tyne Dock, pleaded guilty to possession of a bladed article, causing criminal damage, assault by beating and making a grossly offensive or obscene communication. District Judge Zoe Passfield jailed him for eight months for bladed article possession. He was also jailed for eight weeks for assault and four weeks each for the other two offences, to run concurrently. The sentences were all suspended. Hay was also made subject to an 18-month restraining order and must complete a 12-month alcohol treatment programme, 25 days of rehabilitation and pay his victim £200 compensation, with £85 court costs. Photo: NOP
8. Sean Bentham
Bentham, 30, of Morecambe Parade, Hebburn, was convicted of rape and sexual assault by a jury. Mr Recorder Toby Hedworth KC sentenced Bentham him to six years behind bars and said he must sign the sex offenders register for life Photo: NOP