A HEROIN addict pleaded guilty to his 22nd and 23rd theft offences in ten years yesterday.

Owen John Trebell, 26, of Gurney Street, Darlington, admitted stealing nine cans of deodorant and three DVDs.

David Madison, prosecuting, told Darlington magistrates that Trebell had been spotted by a Superdrug store detective putting deodorant into a black carrier bag on August 28.

When challenged, the DVDs were also discovered, and he gave the deodorant back. Mr Madison said Trebell had 21 similar offences on his record since 1997.

The court heard Trebell had been a heroin addict for eight or nine years, but had started a methadone replacement programme after his arrest.

Trebell, who pleaded guilty to two theft charges, also admitted a breach of a conditional discharge for a dissimilar offence from June 21.

Magistrates adjourned for a pre-sentence report, with custody an option, to be heard on October 4. He was released on unconditional bail.