Woman started heroin at later age

YOUNGSTOWN — Although no addict’s story is typical, Teresa Hooks’ tale is a little unusual.

She did not try heroin until she was 37 and was addicted for a year. She appeared in municipal court today to plead no-contest to a charge of possession of a drug-abuse instrument.

Judge Elizabeth Kobly was taken aback when she found out Hooks, now 38, had started on the drug at such a late age.

“What a stupid thing you have done,” the judge said.

Hooks agreed.

“I’ve told myself that a million times,” Hooks said.

“I mean, this is a stupid teenage thing,” Judge Kobly said. “Heroin doesn’t let anyone go.”

Hooks, of New Castle, Pa., was arrested in a traffic stop May 21, with her sister, Shannon Hooks, 34, on the South Side. Inside their car police found seven syringes and a burnt spoon. Reports said Shannon Hooks told police she and her sister had used heroin earlier in the day and that they spent about $100 a day supporting the habit.

For the complete story, read Friday's Vindicator and Vindy.com