A LANDLORD who stole after entering two flats he rented out has been given a suspended jail sentence at Worcester Crown Court.
James Smith, aged 37, of Mount Pleasant, Redditch, pleaded guilty to burglary at the flats in Lodge Road, Redditch, while the tenants were away for a short time.
Prosecutor Paul Whitfield said the items stolen were a rucksack, diary, laptop computer, jewellery and a small amount of cash. Smith later sent a text to one of the tenants revealing what he had done and the property was recovered.
Tim Sapwell, defending, submitted a number of character references. Smith regretted he had acted in a childish and petulant manner.
Judge Patrick Thomas QC suspended the four-month jail sentence for 18 months. He ordered Smith to pay £350 for invading the privacy of the tenants and a further £370 court costs.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article