A THIEF blew his chance to avoid jail by breaching a court order – and was sentenced to 15 months behind bars as an alternative.
Martin Templeton, 33, whose address was given as a prisoner of Addiewell, committed three offences just over two years ago.
Airdrie Sheriff Court heard last week how Templeton’s crimes began in September 2017 when he broke into a house in Killin Court, Coatbridge, and stole a quantity of clothing, toiletries and bedding.
The following day, the brazen Templeton was caught in possession of both cannabis resin and heroin in Fintry Court, also in Coatbridge.
Templeton was given the opportunity of carrying out a community payback order, but breached it and returned to the dock last week to be re-sentenced.
Defence lawyer Frances Napier told the court: “It is a rather damning report and he is in a position he would rather not be in; he is deemed as a maximum risk of re-offending.
“Given the breach, the court will no doubt be looking at imposing a custodial sentence; other options are limited.
“He was on another solemn matter recently which proceeded to trial and was acquitted.
“It is unfortunate, as he had been given the opportunity to avoid prison, and he has been making progress.
“He is at the last chance saloon and asks for one last opportunity.”
Sheriff Petra Collins, sentencing, told Templeton: “You must be disappointed in yourself as I know you are capable of much better than this.
“I have before me a very poor report. I gave you the opportunity of a community payback order, which I didn’t need to do at the time.
“You didn’t take the opportunity and it is your fault that you are back in court.
“With your record, I have no alternative but to impose a custodial sentence.
“I will revoke the community payback order and impose 15 months imprisonment from today.”
