'Uncle's' flat targeted by 'wicked' burglar while he was in hospital

Raymond Wilson and his accomplice David Soley smashed their way into the empty property before stealing more than £2,700 worth of goods.

The 36-year-old, who had known his victim for more than 20 years, burgled the flat on May 19 last year.

Teesside Crown Court heard how he was sent to prison for unrelated matters just days later and was immediately arrested for the offence as he was released.

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Paul Rooney, prosecuting,said the pair had stolen two televisions, a Sony stereo, an Armani coat and other clothing, as well as box of personal items including the victim's birth certificate.

"The defendant had known the victim for more than 20 years and called him 'uncle Rob'. On May 19 they smashed the window of the front door and entered the flat," he said.

"They stored the items in another flat in the same block before loading them into a car and driving away.

"They were both identified by police from CCTV at the flats."

Mr Rooney said the defendant had convicted of several burglaries and served significant prison sentences as a result.

Raymond Wilson

Wilson, of Lansdowne Street, Darlington, pleaded guilty to the burglary.

Michele Turner, in mitigation, said her client had significant mental health issues and accepted that his substantial record for acquisitive crimes was the result.

She added: "He has a long colourful history before the courts but it has to be said that none are as serious as these matters."

The judge Recorder Taryn Turner sentenced him to three years and four months in prison for the 'wicked crime'.

"You are a man with a significant criminal history for acquisitive crime and in particular it is striking that your criminal history dates back to May 2004 for a dwelling house burglary," she said.

"You knew full well that he was in hospital because you had known him a long time – well enough to call him 'uncle'."

David Soley

•  Soley, of Brougham Street, Darlington, pleaded guilty to one charge of burglary.

The 36-year-old drug addict helped Wilson to smash their way into the flat in Wilshire Place, Tom Raine Court, Darlington.

He was sentenced to 40 months in custody.