A THIEF who cost a Greenock gadget shop nearly £4,000 in stolen items and damage to the premises could be spared a prison sentence.

Kevin Johnstone broke in to Sm@rt Rep@ir on Nicolson Street and helped himself to mobile phones, tablet computers, an Apple watch — and a charity tin.

Johnstone — who has numerous convictions, including one for targeting a sheltered housing complex — was caught after police got a DNA hit for blood found at the store.

A sheriff is now set to consider the possibility of imposing an alternative jail after being told that Johnstone has been on a 'revolving door' of repeated stints of custody.

Defence lawyer David Tod said: "If something could be done about his drug problem it would be to everyone's advantage, including his."

Greenock Sheriff Court heard how the shop owner arrived to open up to find a metal shutter had been tampered with and a glass on the door of the shop smashed.

Prosecutor Joanne Gilmour said: "It was noted that a number of phones, tablets, an Apple watch and a charity tin were missing, as well as a £5 cash float.

"Police carried out a forensic examination due to the fresh blood on the glass and a DNA hit regarding the accused was obtained.

"Between the items stolen and the damage caused, the total loss to the shop was £3,818."

Johnstone committed the offence in October 2017 and was traced by police at a later date in relation to another criminal matter.

Solicitor Mr Tod said: "He accepts that this is a serious matter but he asks the court to get a background report in the first instance.

"Mr Johnstone has been in and out of custody on a number of occasions since the commission of this offence.

"However, he is now at a stage where he has no matters outstanding."

Sheriff Andrew McIntyre told Johnstone: "In the circumstances this is an older case and I'm minded to call for up-to-date reports on you."

Sentence has been deferred until April 8.