A CLYDEBANK shoplifter told social workers he had a heroin habit costing up to £200 a day in prison, a court has heard.

Jonathan Griffin appeared at Dumbarton Sheriff Court after admitting stealing cleaning products from Asda in Clydebank.

The offence took place on May 31 just days after the 43-year-old was released from jail.

Griffin’s lawyer Douglas McAllister said it was a ‘revolving door’ in terms of Griffin committing offences.

He said Griffin had been very open with social workers writing a background report and wanted to be considered for a Drug Treatment and Testing Order (DTTO) as he believed it would help him kick the habit and stop offending.

Mr McAllister added: “He was always very candid that he had access to heroin in Barlinnie as well. He was spending up to £200 a day at times.” Sheriff William Gallacher said the report was ‘not encouraging’.

He said: “The issue is he doesn’t have to take drugs. He’s saying ‘I can take drugs in prison, I’ll take them.’” Mr McAllister urged the sheriff to consider a DTTO and added: “The purpose of a DTTO is to tackle people such as Mr Griffin whose habit is entrenched.” Sheriff Gallacher told Griffin: “I’m going to allow you the chance to do something.” He sentenced Griffin, now resident at homeless accommodation at Bellgrove Street, Glasgow, to a two-year community payback order with a requirement to engage with addiction services.