A serial offender who appeared in court for his 167TH crime was PRAISED by magistrates – for staying out of trouble.
Alcoholic Steven Burton, 55, was hauled before North Devon Magistrates Court in Barnstaple for being drunk and disorderly.
Burton, of Illfracombe, Devon, pleaded guilty to the March 20 offence and was given a six-month conditional discharge.
The court heard it was his 167th offence but presiding magistrate Robin Hagley congratulated him – for not committing a crime for five months.
Mr Hagley told him: “You’re looking a lot better than the last time I saw you – I’m really pleased you’ve managed to steer clear of us for so long.”
Tim Hook, defending, said Burton had “been making considerable progress” battling his alcohol problems.
