ADDICT BANNED FROM PESTERING PARENTS

A drug addict has been ordered not to contact his parents after he was
accused of "pestering" them.

Frederick and Hazel Whitehead reported their son Jonathon because he
had been constantly harassing them for money to pay for drugs.

Whitehead, 26, from Connah's Quay, Flintshire, was made the subject of
a 12-month community rehabilitation order and told to pay UKP55 costs
after he admitted harassment.

Whitehead's solicitor Brian Cross told Flintshire magistrates' court
that his client's parents were still being supportive in wanting their
son cured of his drug addiction.

Police had previously warned him not to approach his parents again
because they feared for their safety.

However, Whitehead returned to their home in Mancot, Deeside, twice
within hours of a previous harassment notice being served on 24 August.

James Neary, prosecuting, said the defendant had subjected his parents
to harassment for months, if not years.

His Frederick was put on anti-depressant tablets as a result of the
stress.

On many occasions he asked for money to fund his heroin addiction and
had caused damage to their property when he was refused.

"When he sorts out his drug problem the relationship within the family
will continue," said Mr Cross.

"That is what all parties want," he added.

Mr Whitehead admitted harassment and said he appreciated that the
situation had arisen because of his drug problem.

He was due to attend a rehabilitation course and was hoping to get a
job as a forklift driver for which he had qualifications.