Crimes to support drug habit result in jail time

Sheldon Guckert was sentenced to three months' imprisonment at Masterton District Court on Thursday after committing crimes to help pay his drug debts.

He faced charges of burglary, drugs, falsely using a document and breach of community detention.

Judge Peter Hobbs said Guckert withdrew $130 more than he was supposed to from his mother's credit card in December. The 23-year-old then went to his brother's address and stole electronic items and food. Police went to his house and found a small amount of methamphetamine and two utensils . Judge Hobbs said Guckert had a drug problem which had led him into debt.

"No doubt, your offending has been driven by the need to pay those drug debts," he said.

He sentenced Guckert to three months in prison "in hope that it will encourage you to remain free of methamphetamine".

Lawyer Jock Blathwayt said Guckert hoped to start a mechanics course on Monday. He has been in custody for six weeks.