Ex-addict who stole from amenity trust evades prison

A former heroin addict who is trying to sort himself out was given the chance to avoid further time in jail today by agreeing to a drug treatment and testing order.

Jason Pottinger, 23, of Hoofields, admitted stealing scrap metal from Shetland Amenity Trust’s yard at Staney Hill on 7th July and breaking into MK Leslie’s premises in the same area on 26th May with the intention of stealing.

Lerwick Sheriff Court heard that Pottinger was now stabilising his addiction on a methadone programme and did not want to face longer and longer jail terms if he carries on with his life of crime.

He was caught with heroin when searched at the police station in Lerwick in September last year. Defence agent Gregor Kelly said: “He wishes to rid himself of the scourge of heroin and become a useful member of society.”

He was granted his wish to be released on bail while he is assessed for the drug testing order.

Both the Staney Hill raids also involved his girlfriend, Sandra Grant, 29, of Ockragarth, Brae, who pled guilty to her role. Defence agent Tommy Allan said she was desperate to avoid returning to Cornton Vale where she had been constantly bullied and attacked twice while held on remand.

Sheriff Graeme Napier placed her on probation for nine months and ordered her to carry out 40 hours of voluntary work.

She told the court the couple hoped to move to Ayrshire to start a new life.

On a lighter note, Grant apologised for wearing a sweatshirt with the word Criminal emblazoned across it after the Sheriff was amused by it.