A RECOVERING drug addict who kept a memory stick after finding it on the floor of a police station has admitted theft.

Darlington Magistrates’ Court heard how 34-year-old Paul Gaunt visited the town's police station on November 4 and found the brand new memory stick after it had been accidentally dropped by a previous visitor.

Police identified Gaunt from CCTV images and arrested him at his home in Melland Street, Darlington, six weeks later.

He admitted the theft and police recovered the device, which was unused.

Stephen Andrews, miigating, said Gaunt was already working with the probation service on a drug rehabilitation order and had made good progress.

He described the theft as unsophisticated and opportunistic.

Magistrates ordered a six-month conditional discharge and told Gaunt to pay £100 in court costs and charges.