A PROLIFIC burglar is facing another stretch behind bars after he was found in a car taken after the vehicle’s keys were stolen in a recent house break-in.

Trevor James Lawrence appeared at Durham Crown Court today (Thursday April 9), via video link from the city’s nearby prison, following his arrest on suspicion of burglary and associated offences, last month.

Although it was only a preliminary hearing in the case, the charges were put to the 34-year-old, who admitted burglary, taking a vehicle without consent, theft of a pedal cycle, plus driving while disqualified, without insurance and when not properly licensed.

The break-in took place at a house in Church Street Head, Durham, overnight on March 23/24, during which a pair of ear rings and keys to a Vauxhall Corsa were taken.

Lawrence was arrested in the car, with the stolen ear rings found in his jacket pocket, in Yarm Road, Stockton, on March 24.

A stolen pedal cycle was also recovered from the vehicle.

He initially tried to offer the explanation that he was considering buying the car.

Sentence on Lawrence was adjourned for a victim statement to be prepared, which the householder who suffered the break-in will be invited to read to the court, should they wish.

The court heard that Lawrence is a three-strike burglar, with prolific offending history.

It includes a conviction for conspiracy to burgle for which he was jailed for six years, at Teesside Crown Court, in December 2008.

Judge Prince asked for a detailed outline of his previous offences to be prepared for the sentencing hearing.

He remanded Lawrence, of Yarm Road, Stockton, to remain in custody prior to sentence, on Friday April 24.