Burglar caught by police in possession of rubber hammer moments after midnight break-in at house in Cross Green
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West Yorkshire Police officers were called to St Hildas Mount, Cross Green, after receiving a report of a man trying to break into house.
Leeds Crown Court heard a member of the public dialled 999 as Ben Parkin was seen inside a porch trying to force the door of the mid-terrace property.
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Hide AdRobert Galley, prosecuting, said officers attended shortly before midnight on June 14 and found the defendant nearby.
He was searched and a rubber hammer was found stuffed into his waistband.
Parkin was arrested and gave a false name and date of birth to the officers.
Parkin then claimed the house belonged to his friend and he had gone there after hearing a bang.
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Hide AdParkin, 21, of Baildon Chase, Whinmoor, pleaded guilty to burglary.
Ms Whitehead said Parkin was easily influenced by others and was fearful of being sent to custody.
Recorder Mark McKone gave Parkin a nine-month jail sentence, suspended for two years.
Parkin was also ordered to complete 20 rehabilitation activity requirement days.
Recorder McKone told the defendant: "If you had got in to the house and the homeowner had confronted you, you would have been going to prison for a very long time."