Shoplifter seeks help with alcohol problem

A homeless shoplifter who stole four steaks from a Stirling city centre convenience store was last week placed on supervision.

Kevin McLaughlin, of the Springkerse homeless unit, took the meat, worth £13.75 from Sainsbury’s in Murray Place on April 6 this year.

The 40-year old had put the four steaks in a backpack and walked out the store without paying. He was not stopped at the time, but the theft had been captured on cctv.

His lawyer Frazer McCready told Sheriff Court on Wednesday: “The problem seems to be alcohol these days rather than drugs.

“The last time he was convicted on a crime of dishonesty was March 2010. He was given the opportunity of a drug treatment and testing order because of heroin addiction. He completed that order successfully.”

Mr McCready added that McLaughlin’s brother had passed away recently and his client had been having “a bad time.”

He had been regularly drinking alcohol and was frequently under the influence, said the solicitor.

However, McLaughlin, had been cooperating with the Community Alcohol and Drugs Service (CADS) organisation who are involved in his methadone prescription, and had an appointment later that day (Wednesday), said Mr McCready. Discussions had taken place about him being hospitalised with a view to taking part in a detox programme.

Mr McCready suggested that sentence be deferred for a few months to see if he could deal with his drinking.

He also pointed out that while McLaughlin would welcome unpaid work, there were reservations about his fitness.

Sheriff Simon Collins noted that McLaughlin had a “dreadful” criminal record, but accepted that the accused had taken steps to deal with his addictions. Mr McCready said McLaughlin was engaging with CADS, adding: “I’m not sure the services of social work are going to be used.”

He had not offended since April this year and the lawyer understood that McLaughlin had no outstanding cases.

Sheriff Collins imposed a community payback order comprising 12 months’ supervision “with a view to helping access addiction services you’re already accessing as an alternative to custody.”

A review was set for January 8.