A habitual criminal who committed his first offence 30 years ago was given a chance to change his ways.

Chief Justice Austin Ward gave Frederick Gary Spence the opportunity to attend the Salvation Army Harbour Light centre in a bid to cure his drug addiction and change his criminal tendencies.

Spence, 40, the Supreme Court heard, had 34 previous convictions, including many for breaking and entering, and had spent nine years in custody over the years.

His first taste of custody came when he was only ten-and-a-half, said Elizabeth Christopher, defending.

Spence of Pearman's Hill, Warwick, had been found guilty of breaking and entering, and theft at a house on Harbour Road, Warwick on March 18 this year.

Sandra Bachus, prosecuting, said the owner, Birute Adams, was away on holiday when he broke in and stole jewellery worth $1,500 and $250 in cash. Spence had many previous convictions, she said, adding that none of the property was ever recovered.

Ms Christopher called for a suspended sentence with residence at the Salvation Army home.

She said Spence had never had a community-based punishment and had not taken part in any rehabilitation courses whilst he was in custody. In addition, violence had never been a part of his crimes.