STEALING from seven cars during a crime spree in Menstrie landed a man a Community Payback Order (CPO) at Alloa Sheriff Court.

Michael Douglas, 23, appeared for sentencing on Thursday, November 29, having pleaded guilty to multiple charges at an intermediate diet.

The charges state that on August 29 and October 2, Douglas entered and stole items from a total of seven unsecured vehicles.

There was full recovery of all the items taken, which included a laptop, cameras and cushion covers, with the total value coming to just under £1,500.

Douglas' lawyer told the court their client "didn't have any recollection" of the offences as he had been consuming Valium at the time.

The solicitor added: "He is someone who has become institutionalised by the cycle of offending behaviour."

The court heard that Douglas, currently in custody over another matter, had recently found out he is due to become a father.

His lawyer continued: "He has the motivation now to try and remain in the community and do something positive with his life."

Sheriff David Mackie urged Douglas to use the new found motivation to turn his life around.

He said: "A first child is the biggest opportunity you could have."

Douglas, of no fixed abode, was given a CPO with a period of 18 months supervision, and he will be required to undergo drug counselling.