Shoplifter jailed

Jul 14 2012 by Andy Newport, Paisley Daily Express

A PERSISTENT shoplifter with chronic drug and drink problems was booted off a rehab project after going on a booze-up during a bus outing to Millport.

Gordon Millar and six others sneaked alcohol on the trip, which had been organised for the project’s clients, and ended up being barred from remaining on the Turnaround course after breaking its zero-tolerance policy.

Now 32-year-old Millar has been jailed for a total of 15 months after admitting a string of thefts from traders in Barrhead.

Sheriff David Pender had been invited to place him on a Drug Treatment and Testing Order but said that would not be appropriate as Millar had previously been given a chance to participate in one of the no-nonsense schemes and had failed to comply with the tough conditions.

In court, Millar admitted stealing alcohol from the Scotmid store in Aurs Drive, Barrhead, on March 13, March 14 and June 9.

He also admitted stealing sandwiches from the Greggs bakery in Main Street, Barrhead, on October 24 last year.

Sheriff Pender said that, as everything had been tried before and Millar had not shown any willingness to co-operate, custody was the only option left.

He jailed the accused for periods of three to four months on each of the charges, to run consecutively with each other.