A FORMER model student ended his pharmaceutical career in tatters after stealing diazepam to pay off a debt.

Gavin Strang, 22, was caught on CCTV stuffing the medication into his sports bag and later admitted he took the packs to give to a drug dealing friend.

The accused was snared whilst working as a dispenser at Houlihan Pharmacy in Darnley after the chief pharmacist suspected someone was stealing from the stock.

It was around 6.30pm on August 18 last year when police were instructed to attend at the store. The internal CCTV showed the accused taking diazepam tablets out of a cluster pack when there was no need to do so. He was then recorded hiding the drugs in his bag, which were recovered during a search. On this occasion he attempted to steal 20 packs – each containing 28 5mg tablets.

When arrested, Strang explained that he was asked by a drug dealer to steal the tablets to help settle a debt he owed.

At Glasgow Sheriff Court, Strang admitted stealing a quantity of diazepam from the pharmacy between January and August last year. He also pleaded guilty to having the drug in his possession with intent to supply to another on August 18, 2017.

In defence it was highlighted that Strang left school with good qualifications.

His lawyer said: "He is a very intelligent young man who has effectively made some daft decisions."

The accused expressed "regret and remorse" for his actions and has taken steps to remove himself from the "negative peer association".

Sheriff Brian Cameron stated that the crime was a "breach of trust", but added: "I am content I can step away from imposing a custodial sentence."

Strang, of Stanely Drive in Paisley, was sentenced to a Community Payback Order with 180 hours of unpaid work to be completed within six months.