Man on probation for stealing a pot plant in Lisburn

Albert Gordon Owens, 52, whose address was given as James Craig Way in Lisburn, appeared at Lisburn Magistrates Court this week.

Owens faced a charge of theft of a pot plant following an incident at Gregg House two years ago.

The court heard that on February 4, 2013, the police were called to Gregg House in Gregg Street in connection with a theft at the social housing property on February 1, 2013.

Police observed the defendant, who was said to be an ex-resident of Gregg House, acting suspiciously.

He was found to have a bag that contained a pot plant, however he said he didn’t know where it had come from.

The defendant told police he had been drinking and didn’t remember taking anything from Gregg House.

Defence said Owens had a history of drinking.

“There is a background of alcoholism,” said Mr Peter Coiley.

“However, he is tackling that issue.”

District Judge Rosie Waters told the defendant that during sentencing she would take into account the Defence assertion that he was dealing with his addiction to alcohol.

“It seems you may be tackling your problems,” Ms Waters told the defendant.

Ms Waters sentenced the defendant to “a short probation order” of nine months.

The District Judge also imposed a condition that the defendant engage with the Probation Service in relation to alcohol treatment and counselling.