A FORMER prison inmate was told to carry out 90 hours of unpaid work for having an illicit mobile phone in his cell.

Glasgow Sheriff Court was told last week that Daniel McDade had not had contact with his family and so "stupidly" accepted the offer of a phone.

The 36-year-old was caught with the device on August 27, 2020, at the start of a sentence in HMP Low Moss. 

But the court heard McDade is now doing well and is home with his family.

His defence lawyer said: "He had no contact with his family because he had not been issued with a personal mobile phone. 

"Another person offered him a phone and he stupidly took it. 

"He has done well in prison and has returned to the family home with support from his partner. 

"He is now in employment and he is taking significant steps in the right direction.”

McDade was sentenced to a community payback order and told to carry out 90 hours of unpaid work within nine months. 

Sheriff Diana McConnell said: “The courts do take a very serious view because a lot of adverse things can follow from possession of these items. 

“It’s quite unusual right at the start of a lengthy sentence but he’s made progress in prison. 

“I have listened to what has been said on your behalf. 

“I now have the [social work] report and I am glad you are back in the family home and have the support of your family.”