DRUG user Robert Mace stole batteries he needed to go with a birthday present for his daughter, a court heard. He went into Lloyds Pharmacy in Ely to collect his methadone prescription, and helped himself to a �4.99 pack of batteries. The theft was captur

DRUG user Robert Mace stole batteries he needed to go with a birthday present for his daughter, a court heard.

He went into Lloyds Pharmacy in Ely to collect his methadone prescription, and helped himself to a �4.99 pack of batteries. The theft was captured on CCTV.

At the city courthouse on Thursday, Mace, 35, of Lawn Lane, Little Downham, admitted theft. He was given a six-month conditional discharge and ordered to pay �4.99 compensation and �35 costs.

Solicitor Christopher Casey said Mace had suffered from drug problems for more than 20 years, and also has alcohol issues.