A man who stuffed his pockets full of drugs told a court he has since turned his life around.

Warren Rose, 57, was found with a coat full of ‘spice’ – a synthetic cannabinoid previously known as a legal high.

Police were called to Ringwood Road in Totton on December 5, 2023, after members of the public raised concerns about the defendant.

Prosecuting, Anisa Alrubaie said Rose was discovered “under some covers” on the road.

Officers searched his coat pockets for a wallet to try and identify him, which led them to discover two bags of spice.

A tub containing 10 white tablets were also found by officers.

The drugs were spice – and synthetic Benzodiazepine.

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She added that Rose has 39 previous convictions for 140 offences, 80 of which were drugs related.

Rose, who represented himself in court, told chair of the magistrates Alan Foster he now has a “beautiful home” and has turned over a new leaf.

He said: “I am in a council flat, and I have stayed out of trouble for a good while now.

“My sister has really helped me out.”

Rose, of Ellwood Avenue, Southampton, admitted a charge of possession of class B drug and a charge of possession of a class C drug.

Mr Foster told Rose he is pleased he is “feeling settled” and that he has secure accommodation.

Rose must pay a fine of £80, a £32 surcharge and £40 prosecution costs which will be deducted from his benefits.

A forfeiture and destruction order was made for the drugs.