A JUDGE has jailed a masked burglar who had equipped himself with a jemmy, a craft knife and a crowbar.

Recorder Ben Nolan said Glen Garbutt’s chances had run out and he gave him a four month prison sentence.

The 46-year-old was spotted by a householder in the back garden of his home in Cheviot Drive, Skelton, east Cleveland, at about 12.40am on July 15 this year.

He was wearing a balaclava and had taken solar panel lighting from the garden. Damage was also caused to a shed.

Police were called and arrested Garbutt who has 48 convictions for 92 criminal offences on his record.

Garbutt, who had been drinking, admitted stealing the lights, but denied trying to get into the shed. He later admitted theft and attempted burglary.

Alex Bousfield, mitigating at Teesside Crown Court, said he had a severe heroin problem, but had made enormous strides in tackling the habit.

He explained that Garbutt, of Hambledon Crescent, Skelton, had been late for his court appearance as he had been with his 81-year-old mother who was ill in hospital.

The defendant received a suspended jail sentence in January for other separate offences and then in April was given a conditional discharge for failing to surrender to police custody.

Recorder Nolan said: “You were well equipped for carrying out this sort of offence. I have absolutely no doubt that you went out with the intention of carrying out inquisitive crime this night.”

He added: “I am afraid your chances have now run out.”

The judge said the starting point for Garbutt was a six month prison sentence, which he reduced to four because of his guilty plea.