A RECOVERING drug addict stole items for Christmas presents a fortnight after Christmas Day, a court heard.
Shaun Eric James struggled with security guards on January 8 after stealing a toothbrush from Wilkinson's, and a make-up kit from Claire's Accessories, both in Darlington, the court heard yesterday.
He told the police he was stealing as he had lost some money and could not afford to buy Christmas presents, said David Maddison, prosecuting.
Probation officer Brenda Robertson said 35-year-old James, a recovering heroin addict of Cobden Street, had tested negative for heroin.
He was sentenced to a six month community order with supervision and drug rehabilitation.
Chairwoman of the bench Patricia Wilson told James: "I think this will be good for you."
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