SERIAL shoplifter Paul Donachie was ordered by Swindon magistrates to have treatment for his drug dependency after he admitted four thefts committed in June.

Donachie, 36, of Kennedy Drive, stole £190-worth of DVDs and video games from HMV in two incidents on June 11 and 12. He also took £50 of washing powder from the Co-op on June 29 and a money box and contents from Ladbrokes in Bridge Street on June 25.

The bench imposed a 12-month community order when he appeared in the dock and instructed him to pay compensation of £70.

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Allowing himself to be carried in an Audi car that he knew had been taken without consent cost Jack Bendall of The Circle, Pinehurst, almost £150. The 20-year-old pleaded guilty to the offence when he appeared before Swindon magistrates. He was fined £76 and ordered to pay prosecution costs of £40 with another £30 towards victim services.

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A judge has issued a warrant for the arrest of a drug dealer after he failed to turn up for sentence. Connor Satchell was due to appear at Swindon Crown Court after admitting possessing cannabis with intent to supply on Friday, October 7, last year.

But when the 24-year-old did not attend Judge Robert Pawson issued a warrant without bail for his arrest. Satchell, of Landford Crescent, Coate, pleaded guilty when he appeared before magistrates and they sent the matter to the crown court for sentence.

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A man who is accused of possessing cannabis with intent to supply is to face trial by jury.

Benjamin Danso-Obeng pleaded not guilty to the charge when he appeared before a judge at Swindon Crown Court.

And the 25-year-old, of Handel Street, Gorse Hill, also denied a charge of possessing criminal property in the form of cash. Danso-Obeng admitted he had the drugs on Tuesday June 27 but denied he was intending to supply them.

Judge Robert Pawson adjourned the case to Tuesday November 28 and released him on conditional bail until then.