It appears a Supreme Court Justice is about to steal a convicted burglar's last chance at freedom.

Puisne Judge Geoffrey Bell told Shannon D. Sommersall seven months ago that he faced his "last chance" when he was sentenced to Salvation Army's Harbour Light drug treatment programme.

In Supreme Court a probation report revealed Sommersall "tested positive for cocaine" and was dismissed from the drug treatment programme for "repeated disruptive behaviour and hostility toward staff".

That happened sometime this past summer. Sommersall, 39, turned himself into authorities on November 9.

He is being held now at the Westgate Correctional Facility awaiting a final ruling from a judge who has already foreshadowed that he'll take a harder line.

Sommersall, of Longridge Pass in Devonshire, was twice convicted of breaking into the Devonshire home of Dwight Furbert.

He stole about $175 in coins and apparel last year, according to Crown counsel.

Sommersall was not present in Supreme Court because there was a scheduling mix-up with prison officials.

But even if he was present, Justice Bell said he was not inclined to grant the defendant bail because of his poor performance in drug treatment.

Now the imprisoned burglar must remain behind bars at least until January 2 when he is due again before Justice Bell.