Newport heroin addict blamed relapse and stealing on grandad's death (From South Wales Argus)

Newport heroin addict blamed relapse and stealing on grandad's death

12:40pm Sunday 17th February 2013 in Gwent news

A HEROIN addict trying to get off the drug stole from a shop to feed his habit during a momentary relapse after his grandad died, a court heard.

Carl Harris, 36, had been caught shoplifting 12 times but had not offended since December 2011.

He had been taking the detox drug Subutex but took £80.23 worth of chocolates and food from the Spar on Clytha Park Road, Newport, following the bereavement last month.

Harris, of Thirlmere Place, Newport, pleaded guilty to two counts of theft at the store on January 12 and 20, Cwmbran magistrates heard on February 14.

Jobless Harris was ordered to pay £80.23 compensation to Spar, given two £75 fines, £85 prosecution costs and a £20 surcharge.

His solicitor Ian George told the court: "His grandfather died. He found it difficult to cope and started to take heroin for that period of time.

"For Mr Harris to be blighted by heroin, this has been a marked improvement.

"He is on Subutex and is moving in the right direction.

"This was a blip which has caused him to take these items."