Former Jesmond Drug Addict Who Helped Others Returns to Stealing
Craig Atkin, once a business owner helping addicts, is back in trouble for theft
Jesmond, Newcastle, UK, Theft, Drug Addiction
Jesmond: A former drug addict is back in trouble. Craig Atkin used to run a business helping others. Now, he’s stealing again.
Atkin started a company called Clean Living. It helped people with drug issues. He stayed out of trouble for over a decade. But when Covid hit, his business collapsed.
Atkin, 43, has a long history of theft. He recently stole a £279 pair of sunglasses from John Lewis. He was caught on CCTV and admitted to the crime.
In court, he received a 12-month conditional discharge. He also has to pay £40 in costs and a £26 victim surcharge.
Before 2009, Atkin struggled with drugs. He turned his life around and helped others. But after losing his business, he fell back into old habits.
His lawyer said Atkin is now in a stable place. He has found housing and is no longer using drugs.