AN army veteran who drank alcohol while taking the sleeping pill Stilnox pleaded guilty in Mandurah Magistrates Court to an assortment of odd stealing and criminal damage offences today.
The police prosecutor told the court that Duncan Andrew Hill broke into a car in Falcon on July 21.
He smashed the window, and stole a logbook and a garage remote.
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READ NOWHill was identified by the blood he left on the glove box.
The court heard that between August 1 to 4, Hill stole an umbrella, Maker’s Mark bourbon and $48 in coins from a Falcon home.
Counsel for the accused told the court Hill suffered from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder from his time in the armed forces.
He had consumed Stilnox and after being sober for a decade, relapsed by drinking alcohol on the nights in question.
Hill gave the logbook and garage remote back to the victim, who was his neighbour.
Magistrate Richard Young said home burglary was a serious offence.
“Everyone has a right to feel safe in their own home and car damage is becoming a prevalent offence as it’s seen as an easy target,” he said.
“Many people consume alcohol and get drunk more than they should, but don’t go out stealing or smashing car windows.”
He placed Hill on a 12 month community based order for the burglary and damage offences with program and supervision requirements.
For charges of possession of drug paraphernalia and possessing cannabis Hill was fined $200.