A TEENAGER who broke into a coffin makers the day after being spotted on the roof and claiming he was retrieving a football, has been sent to custody for 12 months.
Burnley Crown Court heard how James Brown, 18, who also struck at a house, had previously lived with his father who had a long crimimal record and was a bad influence on him, but had recently turned over a new leaf.
Sentencing him, Judge Raymond Bennett said the offence at the works was premeditated and factory owners and householders expected burglars to go to custody.
Brown, of Warwick Drive, Padiham, admitted two counts of burglary and was sent to a young offenders institution.
Janet Ironfield, prosecuting, said Brown broke into a house in Villiers Street, Padiham, and the owner started to make enquiries through an ex-boyfriend.
He had been offered a television and computer by the defendant and they went to a house in Burnley where some of the property was found.
A scenes of crimes officer recovered more goods and when Brown arrived, he was arrested .
A footwear impression was found at the burgled house and when Brown was asked why it matched with his shoe, he said he hadn't a clue.
Miss Ironfield said a raid later occurred at Walter Lambert and Son in Nelson, which manufactured coffins. Property to the tune of £4,500 was stolen.
Brown was recognised as a passenger in a car which contained the majority of the items taken in the burglary.
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