A man found with drug equipment in Hamilton has been ordered to participate in a mental health court treatment programme.

Shannon Looby, 54, admitted having a crack pipe when he appeared in Magistrates’ Court yesterday.

The court heard that police saw Looby with the item on Front Street in January.

The pipe, which was sent to the police lab for analysis, tested positive for cocaine.

Magistrate Maria Sofianos ordered that Looby, who has been in custody for unrelated matters since July, participate in Mental Health Treatment Court beginning on September 19 and released him on $1,000 bail until that time.

Ms Sofianos also ordered that Looby, who has numerous previous convictions, reside at an address on Princess Street and report to court services and his case manager twice a week.

• It is The Royal Gazette’s policy not to allow comments on stories regarding court cases. As we are legally liable for any libellous or defamatory comments made on our website, this move is for our protection as well as that of our readers.