Store theft spree by drug user

A shoplifter stole food from two Airdrie stores eight times over an astonishing five-month crime spree.

Steven Leyden, of Petersburn, targeted Scotmid on Forrest Street and the Commonside Street Spar shop.

His first two thefts – one at each store – took place three months apart, beginning in November last year.

But the 46-year-old swiped food a further six times between March 16 and April 7, twice from the Spar and four times from Scotmid.

In the final offence, at Scotmid, Leyden also stole alcohol.

Leyden, of Luing, pled guilty to all eight thefts and a report examining his background was ordered at Airdrie Sheriff Court.

He returned to court last week for sentencing and solicitor Paul Belardo highlighted his client’s issues with drugs.

Mr Belardo said Leyden had been assessed as a suitable candidate for a drug treatment and testing order.

Sheriff Frank Pieri imposed the order on Leyden and warned him: “This won’t be easy and it’s up to you to see it through.

“You will also face several reviews to check on your progress, the first of which will be on August 29.”

Sentence was also deferred on Leyden for two charges of breaking bail conditions.

On June 6, Leyden went to a house in Manse Place, Airdrie, and approached a woman. He then got in touch with the same woman and was found at an address on Airdrie’s Nicol Street on July 21.

Leyden admitted both breaches and Sheriff Pieri deferred sentencing until August 29.