Cannabis User Stole Money From Dad's Bank Account To Settle Drug Debt

CANNABIS user Ben Lane fraudulently withdrew �400 from his father s bank account so he could pay off his drugs dealer. And his father was able to watch CCTV of the illegal transaction taking place at cash machine when the fraud came to light. I took the

CANNABIS user Ben Lane fraudulently withdrew �400 from his father's bank account so he could pay off his drugs dealer.

And his father was able to watch CCTV of the illegal transaction taking place at cash machine when the fraud came to light.

"I took the money because I have a bad drug habit with cannabis, and I had to pay off my debt," Lane told Ely magistrates. "I know I should not have done it."

He admitted fraudulently using his father's bank card to withdraw �200 on May 19 and asked for two further transactions, withdrawing �150 and �50, to be taken into consideration.

Lane's father Richard had checked his bank account on May 20 and realised there was money missing, said Laura Mardell, prosecuting.

"He contacted the bank. They said the withdrawals were made using his bank card and PIN number. Mr Lane saw CCTV taken at the bank and identified his son carrying out the transaction.

Lane, 26, of Martin Road, Burwell, was ordered to pay �400 compensation to his father, carry out 150 hours of unpaid work, and pay �60 court costs.