A DRUG addict who stole to feed his habit has managed to stay clean for more than a week by taking painkillers, magistrates in Swindon heard.

Alonza Craig Fallon, 34, of Ashford Road, Swindon pleaded guilty to a charge of stealing meat worth £73 from Marks & Spencer in Swindon on December 2 last year.

He also admitted stealing meat worth £82.01 from the same shop on December 6 last year.

He admitted stealing two bottles of Uomo perfume worth £70.50 from the Cosmetic Company store in Swindon on January 3 this year.

And he also admitted stealing one bottle of DKNY perfume and one bottle of Tammy Girl perfume worth £98 from the same store on January 2 this year.

Pauline Lambert, prosecuting, told the court that when interviewed by police Fallon admitted he would have sold the stolen items to buy heroin.

Defending, Neil Brooker said Fallon was released from prison in May last year and by July he was back using heroin.

“He has tried to get his way out by taking methadone but he missed an appointment so was unable to get his methadone script,” said Mr Brooker.

“He has managed to stay clean for the past eight days by using painkillers and he hopes that this is the way to the future, because he certainly wants to stay off heroin.”

Swindon magistrates ordered Fallon to pay compensation of £70.50 and £98 and to undertake 15 days rehabilitation activity days with the probation service.

He also must pay an £85 victim surcharge.