A HEROIN addict supplied drugs to an undercover police officer because he thought she was suffering from withdrawal symptoms.

The female officer told Alexander Thurgood that she was ill because she had not her daily hit, a court heard.

Thurgood, who was previously jailed for two years for conspiracy to supply a class A drug, subsequently bought her a bag of heroin for £10 on March 5 this year.

The 31-year-old, of Drury Street, Darlington, was arrested and pleaded guilty to one count of supplying a class A drug.

Louise Harrison, mitigating, said: “This is an isolated incident where the defendant is approached by the officer, who tells him she is bad, rattling and ill.

“At no time does he ask for any money. This is no more than one addict helping another.

“He is utterly remorseful. He takes heroin just to feel normal and to feel well.”

Recorder Angus Withington, sitting at Teesside Crown Court, said: “It is apparent to me that your role was not one of financial motivation but just helping out another addict.”

Thurgood was given a two-year suspended prison sentence and must also complete a 12-month community order and six-month drugs rehabilitation programme.