A HEROIN addict has appeared in court after stealing meat from a Dunfermline Co-op. 

Barry Johnston, 39, of Dalmore Drive, Alva, previously admitted that, on March 28 at The Co-operative Group on Shamrock Street, stealing the food worth £60 and committing the offence while on bail. 

Defence solicitor Stephen Morrison explained that the criminal justice report supplied to the court was somewhat mixed and that Johnston also had a case for dishonesty pending at Stirling Sheriff Court. 

“Mr Johnston is not proud of gaining this reputation,” he said.

“He previously had a good work history but he has fallen down on receiving help from services.

“He is now working casually as a canvasser.”

Sheriff Alison McKay told Johnston: “I think your solicitor is right in saying this is a mixed report. You seem to see that there is a problem between your offending and substance abuse but you are not engaging in community payback orders. 

“I would hope that your recent time in hospital would have helped you see what the use of heroin will do. 

“I’m giving you an opportunity but it’s up to you to comply.”

Johnston was placed on a community payback order with a supervision requirement for 12 months. 

He was also fined £60.