JUDGE'S PITY FOR MAN TOOK HEROIN TO EASE PAIN

A judge took pity yesterday on a Norfolk man who claimed he took heroin to
ease his pain for a medical condition.

Norwich Crown Court heard yesterday that Christopher Burke, 34, was found
to have heroin with a street value of ?1860 (UK pounds) when police
officers searched his home in Coniston Square, Great Yarmouth.

Jonathan Seely, prosecuting, said that Burke claimed he had used the drugs
to ease his pain and also supplied it to two other drug-users. Burke
admitted possessing heroin with intent to supply and supplying the drug.

Judge Paul Downes placed Burke on probation for two years and tagged him
for six weeks. He also ordered that ?400 (UK pounds) found on Burke should
be confiscated.

Judge Downes told Burke: "You have narrowly escaped a custodial sentence."

Marcus Pearce, defending, said that Burke had now freed himself of heroin
and was now using orthodox medicine. "He realizes that it's not the
correct way to treat his condition. He's now got himself out of the world
of drugs."