A burglar targeted a "vulnerable" person's home and stole over £200 cash and tobacco.
David Hogg carried out a burglary at a bungalow in Finchale Square, West Auckland on the night of March 18, 2020, and stole £250 cash and "tobacco products". The 41-year-old was said to have targeted the home while the homeowner was inside as it was within a "community of elderly residents".
Hogg, of Maude Terrace, Bishop Auckland, appeared at Durham Crown Court on Thursday for a deferred sentence hearing and avoided a jail sentence. The court heard that as Hogg had made "good progress" since the offence, a suspended sentence could be imposed.
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Oliver Connor, prosecuting said the burglary was committed at night when "the occupier was at home". He said: "The property was deliberately targeted on the basis that the community it is situated in is one of elderly residents." He added: "The offence was aggravated by his previous convictions and the fact it was a vulnerable victim."
Shaun Dryden, defending, said the burglary was a "serious offence" but asked if the sentence could be suspended as Hogg had since been making "excellent progress". The court heard that since the burglary was committed, Hogg had served a prison sentence for a drugs offence, but that his progress on licence has been "good". It was said Hogg had since "overcome a drug addiction" and had gained employment with a cladding business, with the company providing a positive reference to the court.
Recorder Benjamin Nolan QC, who had reserved the sentencing to himself, said: "I indicated on the last occasion that you would likely serve a suspended sentence if you continued to make good progress. Happily, you have, you are still working and you are a lot healthier and have addressed your drug problem."
Hogg was given an 18 month prison sentence, suspended for 12 months and must pay £250 compensation.
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