A HEROIN addict has been jailed for stealing milkshakes after asking to be sent to prison to help him kick his habit .

Lukasz Pieta, 31, of no fixed address, admitted stealing two milkshakes worth £1.98 from Unwins in Ock street, Abingdon, on February 17 this year.

He was jailed for four months yesterday by Judge Tom Corrie, who said he was sorry he could not give him a longer term.

Daniel Wright, defending, said his client had been in the UK for seven years and a heroin addict for six of those.

He said Pieta received drug treatment in the community before but wanted to try the CARAT prison programme.

Mr Wright said: “This is the sad tale of someone who, as a result of his addiction, lost his job, lost his wife and has no contact with his children.”

He added that stealing the milkshakes had been an “act of desperation” only intended to secure him a prison sentence.

Judge Corrie said it was an unusual case but because Pieta was in breach of a community order, also for theft offences, he would grant Pieta’s request.

He said: “I’m sorry I can’t make it as long as you need.”

Pieta will also have to pay an £80 victims’ surcharge when he is released.