A LAUNDRY detergent thief has been offered a chance to clean up her act.

Terri Leanne Spellman, 27, of Moredon Park, pleaded guilty to stealing almost £200-worth of laundry detergent and fabric conditioner and make-up and deodorant worth £40 from Wilko in Swindon town centre this month.

A court heard she had stolen the items in order to fund her drug habit. The woman had since received a prescription for heroin substitute methadone.

Nick Barr, prosecuting, told the court Spellman had been captured on CCTV taking Comfort Pearls detergent from the town centre shop on June 13: “She is interviewed on June 20 and makes a full and frank admission.”

Considering the case, District Judge Simon Cooper said: “I have given you a chance...Frankly you’re cocking a snook. You’re going out and helping yourself to fund your habit.”

After hearing Spellman was now on a methadone prescription, he deferred sentencing until August 2. She was ordered to comply with conditions not to offend and to attend all probation appointments.

He urged her to continue working with the probation service and continue to forego drugs: “At your age it’s a good early age to rehabilitate from drugs. Grasp it with both hands. It’s up to you.”

Mr Cooper asked Spellman: “Do you think you can do it?” “Yes,” she replied.

“I look forward to seeing you a success on August 2,” Mr Cooper said.