A DRUG addict who stole from shops in Cowdenbeath has been given the opportunity to complete a drugs testing order as an alternative jail.

Michael Reddington, 33, of the Oasis Project, Kirkcaldy, previously admitted that on May 15 at Morrisons, Cowdenbeath, he did steal a quantity of meat and on July 24, at Boots, in the town's High Street, he did steal two electric razors.

Also, on September 23 at Aldi, Stenhouse Street, Cowdenbeath, he did with the intention of evading arrest on a warrant, pretend to police constables, then in the execution of their duties, that he was Sean Reddington, the truth being as he well as well knew that he is was Michael Reddington, and this he did with the intent to pervert the course of justice and did attempt to pervert the course of justice.

Dunfermline Sheriff Court heard that the items stolen were worth £57 and they had not been recovered.

Defence solicitor, Roshni Joshi, said: “It is evident from the report that Mr Reddington is hoping to address his issues.

“Already there is significant improvement. The last time I saw him, his health was in a very different place and he is looking much better.”

Sheriff Robert McDonald placed Reddington on a drugs testing order for 18 months as a direct alternative to custody.

Sentence was deferred for the second matter.