Ten-year addict's plea to save his life

Burnley magistrates were told ex-convict David Shapcott, 25, was a persistent offender, had struck while on bail and had an "appalling criminal record."

Shapcott, whose habit was costing him his health, asked for the chance to address the bench himself, urged them to make a drug treatment and testing order and told them: "I need help."

The defendant said when he had previously been made subject of court orders he had not taken them seriously and had not been committed.

He had been on drugs for 10 years and now really wanted to deal with his problems. "I really want to do this DTTO for myself. I am willing to do it."

The defendant's solicitor had told the court Shapcott had hepatitis and Added: "If he doesn't do something very seriously it may be more than his liberty he will be losing at the end of the day."

Shapcott, of Hilary Street, Burnley, had admitted burglary, three counts of theft, handling stolen goods and three allegations of failing to surrender. He was given a 12 months DTTO.

The justices stressed the non-custodial option was a last chance and warned Shapcott he would be back before the court immediately if he flouted the order.

Mercedah Jabbari, prosecuting, told the court the defendant took property to the tune of £532 belonging to staff of the Rosehill House Hotel, Burnley, after sneaking into a private staff room.

He also helped himself to groceries worth £329 from a shop after making repeated trips to the shelves and leaving the store partly bare. Shapcott was a persistent offender and had 54 previous convictions, 42 for theft.

Mark Williams, defending, said Shapcott had an awful record for theft and had offended to fund his long-standing drug habit.

He was no fool, understood the situation he was in and his health had deteriorated over the last few months.

Mr Williams went on: "A drug testing and treatment order is tailored for people in his position. Custody has been tried but this won't solve it."