DETECTIVES today warned white-collar criminals that they were out to get them after three people were jailed for their part in a £25,000 plot to steal equipment from computer firm bosses.

Cocaine addict Charles Ross, 21, thought up the idea of targeting his former employers - Micro Peripherals in Altham - as he needed money to pay off debts, a court was told.

He knew how the theft could be arranged and was said to have persuaded young mum Angela Hart, 21, to join in by flattering her with his attentions. Brett Rogan, 27, was then enlisted to get rid of the hauls and goods were delivered to addresses with which he was connected, Burnley Crown Court heard.

The trio had planned to pinch property worth £25,000 but got away with £7,600 before they were rumbled by an alert manager.

Ross was jailed for nine months, Hart for six months and Rogan for five.

Speaking after the case Detective Sergeant Paul Broxson of Accrington CID welcomed the sentences.

He said: "The sentences are very satisfying because in the past white collar crime has not been treated as seriously as it should be.

"This will send out a message that crimes of trust and fraud will be treated very seriously by the police and courts."

Judge Andrew Gilbart told the defendants that theft from employers was serious because it undercut economic activity and threatened jobs and the success of companies. The judge added Hart and Ross had breached positions of trust and Ross had "coined" the arrangement.

Hart, of Edgar Street, Huncoat, who had no previous convictions, Rogan, of Ambleside Avenue, Barnoldswick, and Ross, of Church Street, Barrowford, all admitted conspiracy to steal between August and October 2003. Ross also pleaded guilty to possessing cocaine, ecstasy and cannabis.

Anthony Cross, for Cross, said his client did not accept he was anything other than an equal participant in what went on or that he put any undue pressure on any of his co-accused. The defendant acknowledged money was made by the scheme and claimed all three co-defendants shared relatively significant financial rewards. Ross had been abusing cocaine and needed to pay off debts.

Amanda Johnson, for Hart, told the court the defendant made no profit from the enterprise. She behaved extremely foolishly and was aware the court would be considering jail. Hart had already been punished by the loss of her good name and would have trouble finding future employment.

Syzanne Goodard, representing car valet service manager Rogan, said his family was shocked by his court appearance. He had had to come to terms with the disappointment he had caused them.

Miss Goddard said when Ross suggested Rogan become involved, he agreed in the hope he might make a bit of money. The barrister added Rogan made about £400 from the enterprise.