went on a crime spree to satisfy her craving for drugs.

Sharon Caines, 36, of Scenic Heights Drive, was imprisoned for four years.

Caines had admitted 20 counts, including theft, obtaining goods by deception, getting credit by fraud, and falsifying cheques.

She also asked for 14 other charges to be taken into consideration.

Ms Kathy Lightbourne, prosecuting, said Caines obtained cash and goods worth about $5,000.

She added the complainants included Affordably Chic, Bike World, E.R. Aubrey Ltd., and Modern Mart.

Ms Lightbourne said such crimes were becoming a serious problem.

She said Caines had been cooperative with Police, and credit should be given for her guilty plea.

But an "aggravating'' feature was Caines' extensive record.

"The court should try to give Miss Caines a sentence which may deter her from continuing on this path.'' Caines sobbed as she told the court about her drug addiction, and appealed for help.

"I cannot manage my own life. I am very sorry for what I have done,'' she said.

Puisne Judge the Hon. Mr. Justice Ward said Caines had a long record, and had been treated leniently in the past.

"You seem incapable of functioning honestly without continuing supervision,'' he said and recommended she receive treatment for her drug problem.