Drug addicted thief could face jail

A DRUG addict who stole almost £2,000 of goods and money could face a lengthy spell in jail.

Jason Canning, caught after his blood was found at his crime scenes, stole £1,925 of goods and money and caused £1,282 of damage.

Judge David Goodin said Canning's suitability for help to beat his drug habit would be assessed.

But he warned the 36-year-old, who previously admitted the three charges of burglary, that he could end up in jail.

Peter Gair, prosecuting, told Ipswich Crown Court yesterday, that all three burglaries took place in June.

In the first incident, Canning stole computer equipment and pencils from commercial premises in Old Ipswich Road, Claydon.

A few days later, Canning stole cash and a camcorder from the Marguerite Jefferies Centre in Great Whip Street, Ipswich.

Then just days later, he stole cash from an industrial unit in Dales Road, Ipswich.

Mr Gair said in all three cases Canning left blood at the scene after breaking and entering.

Richard Potts, mitigating, said: "He is desperate to break this cycle of addiction, which has been the cause of this offending over many years.

"He would truly like the opportunity to begin to deal with that, but has very real concerns about his own ability."

Judge Goodin said: "You are looking fairly at going back to prison where you have been a number of times for quite a considerable period of your adult life."

"It's less serious than burgling dwelling houses, but still serious enough to send you to prison - and for years not months."

Judge Goodin adjourned the case for 28 days while Canning is assessed for a drug treatment and testing order.

He added: "I don't know whether you are going to be suitable for an order or if you are suitable, whether you will be given one."

Canning was released on bail, but must reside at Lightfoot House, Fuschia Lane, Ipswich.