A STAR Wars thief who had problems with earthly travel is today behind bars.

Six months ago, the Honorary Recorder of York, Judge Paul Batty QC, gave heroin addict Kieron Shepherd a chance to prove himself by deferring sentence for his latest shoplifting offences and allowed him to keep his freedom.

But when he was due to attend court for his sentence, the 22-year-old turned up an hour late, claiming he had been stuck in traffic on the road from Malton.

York Crown Court heard he had committed further offences since his April court date and had not worked with probation officers to lead a law-abiding life. He was jailed for three months.

Shepherd, of Commercial Street, Norton, cried as he was taken down to the cells. He had admitted attempting to steal Lego Star Wars boxes worth £93.96 when subject to a suspended prison sentence for other offences.

His barrister Glenn Parsons said: “I make a plea for mercy for this reason, he is a man who, whether he recognises it or not, could be close to death because of his addiction.” The barrister claimed Shepherd had drug-related health problems.

The judge told Shepherd: “I cannot go on giving you chance after chance.”