A DRUG addict, recently released from prison after dumping his dead friend's body on a Sandown pavement, has found himself back in court.

Peter Ian Hayday, 54, of Station Road, Brading, appeared before Isle of Wight magistrates yesterday (Monday) charged with theft.

He admitted stealing numerous items of an unknown value from Tesco, in Ryde, on October 30.

Ann Smout, prosecuting, said he and his girlfriend filled a trolley and walked out without paying.

Defending, Barry Arnett said Hayday made the 'stupid' decision after realising he had no money on him.

Hayday told police he had stolen the items to sell for drugs, but Mr Arnett said his client had lied in interview and had actually stolen food for himself and his mother.

Three years ago Hayday was sentenced to 42 months in prison for drug offences and perverting the course of justice.

He and a friend, 'Boo' Parsons, had driven to a dealer's house and Mr Parsons had overdosed in the car.

After trying, and failing, to resuscitate him, Hayday drove to Cross Street, Sandown, and dumped his friend's body on the pavement.

Mr Parsons' body was discovered shortly afterwards by a taxi driver and a passer-by who called the emergency services.

Magistrates were told yesterday that Hayday had received a number of warnings since he was released on licence in March — for possession of heroin, breaking his curfew and missing appointments with the probation service.

The court heard he led a 'chaotic lifestyle' due to his heroin and alcohol use and had yet to make any progress towards recovery or rehabilitation.

Mr Arnett said Hayday cared for his 86-year-old mother, who relied on him.

"He does not want to lose his liberty. It's not him that will suffer, it's his mother," he said.

His client was taking the heroin substitute methadone, which had stabilised his condition, said Mr Arnett.

Magistrates sentenced Hayday to a six-month community order, to include ten rehabilitation activity days.

He was fined £40, with £85 in costs and an £85 surcharge.