A homeless schizophrenic man who was caught with illicit drugs at a railway station and a mental health hospital has been fined.

Robert Stott was arrested twice last month after police found him in possession of cannabis and amphetamine.

The 39-year-old came to the attention of police on January 5 when people raised concerns about his welfare when he was sitting in Darlington railway station talking to himself.

Daniel Hill, prosecuting, told Newton Aycliffe Magistrates’ Court how Stott was arrested again on January 31 when he was found to be carrying amphetamine when he attended the West Park mental health hospital in Darlington.

Stott, now of Lanchester Road Hospital, pleaded guilty to three charges of possession of a Class B drug.

Stephen Andrews, mitigating, said his client was now receiving treatment for his schizophrenia after he started self-medicating while he was homeless.

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“These offences have occurred when he was disengaged and not being in treatment,” he said.

“At the time he was homeless. He was using illegal substances, not on top of his prescribed medication but instead of.

“He recognises that is not a good solution.”

Anne Kellitt, chair of the bench, ordered Stott to pay a total of £309 in fines and court costs.