A MAN has denied a sneak break-in, possibly a “through the window” bag grab, but admits handling the stolen goods.

Elliott Bowery is accused of committing a burglary at a property in Gilesgate, Durham, on either October 1 or 2, this year, taking a black leather ruck-sack, containing a purse, plus bank, rail and identity cards.

He is also said to have used the bank card three times, at a petrol filling station shop, a Premier convenience store and at a fast food takeaway, all in the Gilesgate area, to make contactless purchases for items totalling £54.15, on October 2.

The 25-year-old defendant, of Sharp Crescent, Gilesgate, denied the burglary but pleaded guilty to three counts of fraud, relating to the use of the card.

Joe Culley, prosecuting, said the complainant told police she left the bag on a chair near a slightly open window and only noticed it missing on October 3, near the window which, by then, was pushed further open.

Lewis Kerr, for Bowery, said his case will be that he received the bank card from someone else he is refusing to name, but then went on to use it himself.

The case was adjourned for a trial on the burglary matter, and Bowery, who was been remanded in Durham Prison since his arrest, will remain in custody until the hearing, in the week starting February 28, next year.

--

Keep up to date with all the latest news on our website, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

You can also follow our dedicated County Durham Facebook page for all the latest in the area by clicking here.

For all the top news updates from right across the region straight to your inbox, sign up to our newsletter here.

Have you got a story for us? Contact our newsdesk on newsdesk@nne.co.uk or contact 01325 505054