Housebreakers spared jail after Helensburgh flat raid

William McFall and Iain Campbell pleaded guilty last month to the theft by housebreaking from the home in Drumfork Court on July 12 last year.

McFall, of Nursery Street, and Campbell, of Williamson Drive, both Helensburgh, took a set of keys, a mask, a quantity of lighters, a watch and a metal container.

Both men had past criminal records and addiction issues, the court heard previously, and sentencing had been delayed for extra reports.

McFall, 40, was found to not be suitable for a drug treatment and testing order (DTTO) but has been trying to tackle his issues through attending groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous, said his lawyer.

Campbell’s solicitor, Jonathan Paul, said his 24-year-old client “seems to have dealt with” his drug problems. He was said to be benefitting from his current relationship and family situation.

Sheriff Hendry said: “My expectation was I would be sending both these gentlemen to custody. I’m changing my mind, but I’m changing my mind because I lose no sentencing options.”

He told the pair that if they breached their community payback orders, he would still have the powers to send them to prison.

McFall was put under supervision for two years and must do 225 hours of unpaid work within 12 months.

Campbell will be supervised by social workers for 18 months and must do 180 hours of unpaid work.

Both men will be subject to curfews from 7pm to 7am for the next six months. And both will be required to undertake any drug or alcohol counselling or treatment directed by social workers.

Sheriff Hendry added: “You have come within a millimetre of going to prison today.”

There will be a review of their progress on August 2.