put on probation for two years when he appeared in Magistrates' Court.

Dwayne D. Bean, 31, of Radnor Road, pleaded guilty to breaking into the Hamilton Parish home of Kelly Simmons on September 4.

On October 19, prosecutor Sgt. Rex Osborne told the court the complainant reported the theft of 10 pairs of underwear to Police.

Bean was arrested and told officers he had thrown the underwear into the ocean.

Sgt. Osborne said the value of the stolen garments was close to $30. He added that Bean had previously been fined for stealing ladies' underwear.

Following a reading of Bean's social inquiry report, defence lawyer Mr.

Carlsen Philip said his client had put himself in an embarrassing situation.

"He apologised to the person from whom he stole,'' Mr. Philip said. "He has an alcohol problem which he is taking care of.'' Mr. Philip informed the court that Bean's last offence was five years ago.

Magistrate the Wor. John Judge said Bean certainly seemed to have an alcohol problem. "Sending you to prison would not help the problem,'' he said.

He gave him two years probation and told him that during that time he was to attend addiction services for treatment.