A MAN who failed a court order imposed for handling stolen goods has been spared a prison sentence.

Joseph Stephens, a former addict, failed to keep appointments with the probation service to be tested for heroin.

Judge Michael Mott revoked a drug testing and treatment order and ordered Stephens, of Moat Crescent, Malvern, to carry out 120 hours community work instead.

The 24-year-old was arrested with bin liners containing £1,000 of audio equipment after the Dance Academy in Worcester was burgled on Thursday, September 12, last year, said Laura Kagasian, prosecuting.

The equipment was returned but two days later was stolen again in a second raid, along with 97 compact discs worth £1,600.

Stephens was found on the premises.

Delroy Henry, defending, said Stehens was not dependent on heroin any longer and had found a job and a home.

He had found it difficult travelling to be tested and had "foolishly" decided to change his ways on his own.

The judge said it seemed as though drugs were not ruling his life now. It would be unfair to send him to custody.