DNA and fingerprint evidence led to the arrest of a burglar, Worcester Magistrates Court heard.

Mohammed Qumran, of Arboretum Road, Worcester, was yesterday told he was lucky to escape a jail sentence after admitting to breaking into his friend's flat and stealing a mobile phone, worth £80, to fund his drug addiction.

Helen Harmeston, prosecuting, told the court the 23-year-old broke into the Moor Street property, off The Tything, by climbing up to the first floor balcony and forcing open the windows.

"While breaking in he cut himself, leaving some bloodstains and fingerprints," said Miss Harmeston.

"At the time he was a heavy heroin user.

"During the police interview he admitted to the burglary."

Dale Sheehan, defending, said his client fully accepted responsibility for the break-in, which happened in October 2002, which is why he pleaded guilty.

He said Qumran initially went around to see his friend but when he discovered that he was not home he acted on the spur of the moment.

"He was fully co-operative with police and with the investigation," said Mr Sheehan. "He acted out of some desperation."

Mr Sheehan added that since the burglary, with the help of his wife and family, Qumran was starting to turn his life around.

"Dwelling burglaries are very serious. We take them very seriously and a lot of them go to the Crown Court," said Gerald Heath, chairman of the bench.

"We could have sent you to prison but we have taken note of recent reports and we are not going to do that."

Magistrates sentenced him to work 80 hours in the community and placed him on a rehabilitation order for 12 months.

He was also told to pay compensation of £80 to his victim and court costs of £43.