A MAN who hid sunglasses down his shorts has pleaded guilty to theft in court.

Craig Nikolic, 43, Grosvenor Road, Wrexham, pleaded guilty to stealing sunglasses, of the value of £40, from Debenhams, Eagles Meadow.

Rhian Jackson, prosecuting at Wrexham Magistrates, told the court that although the item was recovered, they could not be resold.

She said although he admitted what he did to the police, he was found positive for heroine and cocaine after a drugs test.

Mark Davies, defence solicitor, said: “It’s fair to say Craig has over the years struggled quite significantly with drug problems. He’s much better than he has been in the past.”

The court heard how Nikolic did not have much memory from being in the store but admitted to smoking a cigarette containing something which had an effect on him.

Davies added: “His presence here today is clear to me he seems to be clean of drugs and appears to be settled. I will ask for full credit for a prompt and early plea.”

Tracey Flavell, probation officer, confirmed to the court that Nikolic had been subject to a suspended sentence, due to expire this year, and was ordered to complete a drug rehabilitation requirement.

This has since been completed and Nikolic has been attending voluntary sessions and the intervention in place has made a difference.

Lady Sally Kenyon said: “I watched your face, you were pleased with the report from the probation officer.

“We congratulate you for the progress you made but you need to keep it up.”

Nikolic was rewarded for his early guilty plea and was ordered to pay a total of £195, of which £40 was for compensation, £85 court cost, surcharge of £30 and a £40 fine.