A Hamilton housebreaker caught with a stolen gold ring could be given help to kick his drug habit.
William Shanks, 29, admitted stealing jewellery, car keys, a purse and money from a house in Selkirk Street on June 1 last year.
Hamilton Sheriff Court heard the occupants were wakened by noises downstairs about 4.30am.
Mairi-Clare McMillan, prosecuting, said: “They went down to investigate and heard someone running out of the back door.
“A male was seen in the street. He appeared unsteady on his feet and was carrying a bag.
“The witnesses realised property was missing and contacted the police.
“While en route, officers found the accused. They searched him and recovered the car keys.
“He was wearing a gold ring that had been taken from the house.”
When Shanks pleaded guilty to the charge earlier this year, he was serving a 16-month jail term for another matter.
Sentence was deferred until Friday for background reports.
Defence agent Jackson Bateman said Shanks has had a significant heroin problem and is keen to address it.
Sheriff Thomas Millar ordered the accused to be assessed for a drug treatment and testing order, and continued the case until next month.
