"It's in your own hands," Sheriff tells Moray defendant on verge of being jailed
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
A SERIAL offender has been told he's being given one last chance to avoid prison.
Ian Tallons pleaded guilty at Elgin Sheriff Court to two charges of theft.
The 48-year-old stole a hooded top from Sound & Vision on South Street in Elgin on November 11 last year.
Then, on February 10 this year, he ran out of the Co-op in Lossiemouth with three bottles of pink gin.
Neither the alcohol, which cost £45.50, or the £50 top, were ever recovered.
Defence solicitor Stephen Carty stated that his client had experienced long-standing issues with addiction, which had been made worse by the death of a family member.
Mr Carty said: "He's never really got over the situation, but he is starting now to make inroads into the various difficulties that he has.
"He's not a young man. He appreciates that with the record he has he's put himself in danger."
Speaking directly to Tallons, Sheriff Gordon Lamont said: "Anybody with your record for shoplifting will know that the court's mind will turn towards a custodial sentence.
"When I first read your case it was in my mind that you wouldn't be leaving this building through the front door.
"However the thing that saves you – and the only thing – is that you appear to be doing relatively well in addressing your issues.
"If you come back here in three months' time with anything less than a glowing report you know the likely outcome.
"But if you continue to make progress then the court will give you credit for that.
"It's in your own hands Mr Tallons."
