A CONVICTED burglar has been given another chance for the future after proving he could stay out of trouble.

Sentence on James Cruise had been deferred for several months, to see whether he could behave and remain in a relationship.

Preston Crown Court was told he had done just that when he reappeared.

Cruise, 31, of Bridge House flats, Mill Hill, Blackburn, was given a two year prison term, suspended for two years, with a supervision order attached. He had pleaded guilty to two burglaries and asked for three similar offences to be considered.

Paul Richardson, prosecuting, said Cruise stole electrical items and jewellery worth £3,000 in Kirby Road, and electrical items, jewellery and cash amounting to £1,400 at Livesey Branch Road.

Blood was found at both houses, and DNA tests showed Cruise had been there.

Cruise told police his girlfriend was pregnant at the time and he had no means of supporting her. He had since turned over a new leaf.

The court heard from a probation officer and drugs counsellor who said Cruise had made good progress and stayed out of trouble. Daniel King, defending, said the circumstances of the case were exceptional.

The judge said Cruise showed signs of developing into a useful member of society who would not offend again.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.