A WREXHAM woman has been given a chance to address her drug use after stealing from a shop to "feed her habit."

Melissa Williams, of Chapel Street in Ponciau, appeared at Wrexham Magistrates Court on Tuesday.

The 27-year-old admitted that on October 25 last year, she stole meat to the value of £28.15 belonging to Spar in Market Street, Rhos.

Justin Espie, prosecuting, told the court Williams entered the store at around 1.30pm and selected the meat before walking out with it.

The offence put her in breach of a conditional discharge, which had been imposed for similar offences.

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Lorraine McClure, defending, said: "Her biggest motivation for stealing is in relation to her drug use.

"She managed to wean herself off the drugs for some time but unfortunately something happened in her private life and she relapsed.

"She does want help - there's an indication of motivation so perhaps the intervention of the probation service could be looked at."

Following an interview with the defendant, a probation officer told the court: "She claims she went out to steal the goods to feed her habit, but she forgot she was subject to the conditional discharge."

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The officer suggested Williams "could benefit" from working with the Probation Service.

Deputy District Judge Paul Conlon handed down a fine of £80 and ordered the defendant to undergo six months of drug treatment.

She must also pay compensation of £28.15 to the Spar, as well as £85 in prosecution costs.