A BURGLAR who stole jewellery, cash and DVDs from a couple's home while they were away on holiday has been given a chance by a judge.
Thomas Robinson, aged 37, burgled the house in Liverpool Road, Newcastle, on October 25 ruining the owners' break in Spain and leaving them considering selling up after 27 years.
Prosecutor Paul Spratt told Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court Robinson gained entry by climbing over a 6ft fence and then through a back window.
"An untidy search was made in the property and a large amount of property was taken. None of these items have been recovered," said Mr Spratt.
He added: "Some were of antiquity value, many have sentimental or personal attachment. A large amount of jewellery was taken, it was a fairly high level burglary."
Robinson asserted he did not commit the burglary on his own.
He was arrested after his DNA was found on the back window.
Mr Spratt said the couple feel their home has been violated and after living there for 27 years they are now considering selling the house.
Robinson, of Berwick Walk, Newcastle, who has 78 previous offences including 12 house burglaries, pleaded guilty to burglary.
Peter McCartney, mitigating, said Robinson has not committed any burglaries since 1997 and has been addressing his drug and alcohol problems.
He said the defendant fell off the wagon after the death of his father. But he now has his own accommodation, his partner is pregnant and he has the offer of a job.
"He has positively responded to his addiction and to having fallen off the wagon by re-engaging and providing negative tests," said Mr McCartney.
"I invite you in those circumstances to say you can take a chance with him."
Recorder John Harvey said he would give Robinson a chance and handed him a 12-month prison sentence, suspended for 18 months, with a three month curfew from 10pm to 7am.
He must also attend a thinking skills programme and the offenders' alcohol abuse programme.
"While the couple were away on holiday you burgled their house and made a considerable mess in doing so," said Recorder Harvey.
"The news of that burglary spoilt the last week of the holiday.
"A great deal of property was taken and a great deal of it had great sentimental value.
"Perhaps you should reflect how you would feel if somebody took items of sentimental value to you.
"They are seriously considering selling their home which they have occupied for 27 years."
But the judge added that although he would be justified in passing a substantial prison sentence, he was prepared to give Robinson a chance.
"You should regard it as a final chance," he said.
He added: "I hope you can stay out of trouble in the future."
Also today - most popular vouchers:
Two-for-one or Four-for-two - Shaffers
Come and try our Tiffins for only �4.95 - Blue Tiffin
Receive a �10 voucher for a table for four or more - Roshni Restaurant
Want to offer readers a discount voucher? Claim your listing on our business directory
 |  |
Scotland Weekend breaks Employment law Christmas markets Argentina Gordon Brown
No comments:
Post a Comment