A mum used children Fagin-gang style to help her shoplift from stores.
Erin Martin, 32, used the kids as she tried to flee after stealing goods as presents for her friends and family.
The unemployed woman from Huntly, Aberdeenshire, was said to have taken £1,100 of items during her crime spree.
The Scottish Sun reports that she used the team of children to help her take games consoles, vacuum cleaners and suitcases from shops.
Aberdeen Sheriff Court heard that she got the youngsters to flee with her swag after being stopped by security guards.
Martin told the court she stole because she had debts of £70,000 and couldn't afford to buy presents for her family.
The Sheriff told her she had no idea how to live within her means.
"Not only have you been involved in this dishonest behaviour, but you involved children in this which is completely unforgivable," he said.
Ms Martin was told to complete 100 hours of community service for her crimes.