THIRSTY burglar Leslie Murphy was caught after his DNA was found on a milk-shake bottle.
The hapless 43-year-old stopped to a have a drink as he raided Sayers bakery on Childwall Parade, Huyton.
But the grandfather failed to clear up after himself and when forensic experts examined the shop they discovered empty food packets and drink bottles. Analysis revealed his DNA on the bottle of a chocolate milkshake.
The drug addict’s lengthy record meant police could quickly identify him. But yesterday Murphy was spared prison after the court heard he had been in hospital for three months with a string of drug-related illnesses.
His barrister, Frances Hertzog, said he was determined to kick his addiction.
Judge Charles James gave Murphy to a 12-month community order with a drug rehabilitation requirement.
He said: “You are a man with significant health problems.
“Although you have a long criminal record, it is right that recently your criminal convictions seem less than they were some years ago.”
