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A mother-of-four was locked up for burgling the home of a friend who suffers from dementia.

Rebecca Kidson, 30, was only caught when security cameras were fitted at the home of the man, who also has a drink problem, Nottingham Crown Court heard.

She was charged with burglary and bailed on condition that she did not return to the house. But she returned four days later, said Noel Philo, prosecuting.

Drug user Kidson, who had 68 previous convictions including burglary, was sent to prison for two year five months.

She was banned for life from contacting the man or visiting the street where he lives.

Judge Nigel Godsmark QC told her: "You had a trouble history and a troubled past. You have been given many opportunities by the courts and face a situation where there is a custodial sentence."

The court heard Kidson took cigarettes and cash from the home of the man who lives in Newark.

She was also involved with a group of people who attacked a woman suspected of having information about another incident.

(Image: Nottinghamshire Police)

In this case, Kidson told her: "Give a statement and you are dead."

The victim was left with a bruise near the left eye and was in fear of a repeat attack, said Mr Philo.

Digby Johnson, who represented Kidson, told the judge she was friends with the burglary victim.

"She did a bit of cleaning, tidying and he started to give her money. Because her drug addiction developed, she accepts she was taking money without his permission.

"She was a regular visitor to the premises. On occasions, she went in when she was not invited in. It is one of the things which has left her most ashamed," said Mr Johnson.

Kidson had "a chaotic lifestyle" but her drug problem was under control. However on Christmas Day, she was bereaved by the death of the man who fathered her four children.

"She was using heroin and crack cocaine and not looking after herself. She was existing rather than living.

"Her remand in custody has been a blessed release, in the context of getting three square meals a day," said Mr Johnson.

Prison could be "a turning point" for Kidson of Yorke Drive, Newark, said Mr Johnson. She plans to move out of the town when freed.

Mr Johnson added: "All her friends and influences in Newark are negative."

Kidson admitted burglary on October 7 and 11; assault by beating; witness intimidation and failing to answer bail.