A FREQUENT former low-level criminal lapsed back to his old ways after a four-year offence-free period, a court heard.

Trevor John Stifman preyed on an elderly neighbour, taking his bank card to attempt to make several small contactless purchases at local shops, before returning the card.

He also broke into NHS offices, stealing money, prescription forms and medicines, but causing more than £3,200 damage in the process.

Durham Crown Court heard that the son of Stifman’s 84-year-old neighbour received a message from his father’s bank querying transactions on his account, on July 15.

Uzma Khan, prosecuting, said he made inquiries and his father, who is not in good health, confirmed he had not used his bank card, so it was blocked.

The rogue purchases were made for items costing £83.65.

Miss Khan said that night, NHS administrative offices at Avenue House, Newton Aycliffe, were burgled, with a door and window damaged, £320 cash and prescription forms taken.

Stifman was identified after examination of cctv and £285 was found on him upon arrest.

The defendant , 42, of St Barnabas Walk, Newton Aycliffe, admitted theft, burglary and fraud.

Chris Morrison, for Stifman, said: “This was the longest he has gone offence-free as an adult.

“He was suffering from a bout of depression and regularly medicated, but he rather over indulged and he was left in something of a stupor.

“This was an aberration as it goes against the background of a substantial hiatus in his offending record.”

Judge Singh told Stifman: “You are 42 and it would have been hoped at 38 you had recorded your last conviction.

“It’s been shown you can behave yourself and I’ve come to the conclusion you lost your way somewhat and need to get back on the straight and narrow.”

He imposed an eight-month prison sentence, suspended for two years, during which Stifman must attend 35 probation-run rehabilitation activity days and complete a drug rehabilitation programme for the next year.

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