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Two former pharmacy staff members and another person have been sentenced after admitting to charges relating to the theft and illegal supply of prescription medicines.

Stuart Eales and Louise Larby both admitted to a charge of theft by employee in relation to controlled drugs stolen between May 2022 and March 2024.

They and Alastair Carnes also admitted conspiring to supply zopiclone, dihydrocodeine, diazepam and pregabalin, as well to sell/supply Oramorph without a valid prescription.

All three denied a further charge of conspiring to supply Tramadol, a charge that will remain on file.

Mr Eales received a six-month custodial sentence suspended for 12 months and must carry out 150 hours’ unpaid work.

Ms Larby was sentenced to an 18-month community order, 20 days’ rehabilitation and a nine-month mental health treatment requirement.

Alastair Carnes received a 20-month prison sentence, suspended for two years, as well as a 30-day rehabilitation requirement and home curfew for three months.

Avon and Somerset Police commented: “The prosecution followed a two-year investigation which began when a pharmacy contacted police after becoming aware of discrepancies in their stock.

“Selling or sharing prescription-only medication is a criminal offence. Taking a drug without the proper medical assessment carries a significant risk of an adverse reaction.”