"High risk" Lanarkshire offender given chance to sort his life out

dailyrecord.co.uk:

A "high risk" offender who was caught driving a stolen car has been given a chance to sort out his life. Hamilton Sheriff Court heard that Ronnie Connelly was arrested after a high speed chase in East Kilbride.

Connelly, 29, formerly of Pine Crescent, East Kilbride, and now of Skye Road, Rutherglen, admitted stealing items, including car keys, from a house in Walnut Grove on December 13, 2022.

The Lanarkshire Live app is available to download now. Get all the news from your area – as well as features, entertainment, sport and the latest on Lanarkshire’s recovery from the coronavirus pandemic – straight to your fingertips, 24/7.The free download features the latest breaking news and exclusive stories, and allows you to customise your page to the sections that matter most to you.Head to the App Store and never miss a beat in Lanarkshire - iOS - Android He also admitted stealing a vehicle from that address, driving dangerously, punching a police officer and stealing money from an insecure vehicle, also in Walnut Grove.The court heard that Connelly is currently the subject of three separate community payback orders after committing a catalogue of offences in recent years.His lawyer said the latest crimes were committed when he was under the influence.She added: "This happened at a time when he was having difficulties and his mental health had declined.

He was increasing his use of alcohol and other substances."Background reports conclude that he's at a high risk of re-offending.