A Somerset man who claimed he stole pain medication and mouthwash out of desperation because he had a toothache has been jailed for six months.

Richard Dill, 38, pleaded guilty to stealing one pack of Tylenol Extra Strength, one pack of Atasol Extra Strength and a bottle of Listerine with the total value of $16.38 on May 25 from Shopping Centre.

He told Police he was working on the Hustle Truck and wouldn't receive a pay cheque for two weeks. Dill said he had no money and couldn't find a friend to buy him medication for his excruciating pain.

The Long Bay Lane resident also pleaded guilty to prowling on the property of Thambrasu Subramaniam in Rocklands Crescent, Warwick. He claimed he was hiding from someone he owed money. He said he was afraid the person would beat him up.

During sentencing, Magistrate Shade Subair asked Dill if he had anything to say to the court. He said he has been on remand for five weeks and feels he has learned his lesson.

The defendant said he wasn't guilty of serious crimes.

"I was seen in someone's yard. It's not like I raped somebody or stole from him".

He also said he didn't steal a large amount of goods so his sentence shouldn't be heavy.

"I'm asking you to consider the fact that these are not serious offences and consider my guilty plea. I made no excuses for my actions".

Dill went on to explain this was "an act of desperation" and all his other offences were drug related. He said his father would be willing to hire him as a labourer if he was released from custody.

Magistrate Subair said she took into consideration the defendant's guilty plea and his "somewhat remorseful nature".

She said Dill has become a career criminal person and an immediate custodial sentence was in order to protect the community, even if it was for a short time.

Dill received six month imprisonment for prowling and one month for stealing to run concurrent. His time spent on remand will also be taken into consideration.