A RACIALLY abusive drug addict who stole repeatedly to feed his habit has been jailed.

A RACIALLY abusive drug addict who stole repeatedly to feed his habit has been jailed.

Steven Carnegie spat on his cell floor at Ipswich Magistrates' Court, banged on his cell door and shouted racial abuse at a court official who was so distressed she required counselling, Ipswich Crown Court heard.

The 35-year-old heroin addict admitted racial abuse when he was arrested for a spate of thefts from cars in Brandon during the summer.

He appeared at the lower court and was released on bail on August 21. However later that day he broke into a detached garage in Brandon and stole a digital receiver and some spray fluid.

Carnegie, of Edinburgh Way, Thetford, pleaded guilty to racially aggravated threatening behaviour, burglary, a charge of failing to surrender to custody and four offences of theft.

He asked for 13 similar theft offences to be taken into consideration after he made admissions to police.

Michael Crimp prosecuting, said Carnegie had previously been sent to prison in July 2007 and March this year for stealing from cars.

Richard Potts mitigating, said items left on display inside vehicles were a great temptation to drug addicts who needed money.

He said Carnegie had used heroin for 15 years but was receiving medication to become drug free.

Mr Potts said: “This type of drug is so debilitating and so driving sometimes they simply haven't got the strength of will to make the necessary changes. He now has the realisation it is going to kill him and is desperately looking for help.”

Mr Potts said his client was “remorseful” about his abusive behaviour towards the court official.

Judge John Holt said Carnegie's words were “disgraceful”. He jailed Carnegie for a total of two years, six months and two weeks.