eBay addict struck off for stealing from workplace

A KENT optometrist who stole more than £1,500 worth of equipment and sunglasses from his employers and sold them on eBay has been struck off.

Sanjit Singh Bansal, 36, of Aylesford, who was working for Niall O'Kane Optometrists of High Street, Strood, near Rochester initially tried to pretend he was the victim of identity fraud, the General Optical Council (GOC) heard.

However, at Maidstone Crown Court in 2006 Bansal admitted theft and was given 200 hours community punishment and told to pay £1,510 compensation and £560 costs.

Striking him off, GOC disciplinary panel chairman Margaret Hallendorff said: "Mr Bansal stole a large number of items from his employers between June and November 2005.

"The facts present a picture of protracted dishonest conduct followed by lies."

For Bansal, Jamas Hodivala said: "It was an aberration of personality. He has addressed his eBay addiction and resolved his difficulties."