Walsall raider locked up after theft of copper

Carl Jeynes and two other men entered the address in Pinfold Street, Darlaston, on November 25 last year through a first floor window.

Wolverhampton Crown Court heard the property belonged to Accord Housing Association and work was taking place there at the time.

Manager Tina Cox found the break-in two days later. Copper piping had been taken – causing water damage.

Jeynes pleaded guilty to a count of burglary at a previous hearing. He was sentenced to 16 weeks in jail.

Mr Howard Searle, prosecuting, said Jeynes, aged 43, of Stafford Road, Darlaston, and two others had been captured on CCTV.

"The two others had their faces covered but the defendant did not," he said. "They have not been identified but Jeynes is known to the police and was recognised.

"The pipes were torn off with force resulting in damage."

Mr Searle said the costs of repairing the building had been estimated at between £5,000 and £6,000 – with materials totalling £1,000.

Mr Benjamin Nicholls, defending Jeynes, said: "This offence was carried out under an inadvisable mix of alcohol and medication. My client has little recollection of committing the offence.

"He is making an effort not to drink and recognises he is on a revolving door of repeat offending and is looking to break the pattern."

But Judge Peter Barrie said it was a serious offence, adding: "For the few pounds you would have got for the scrap value of this metal you caused thousands of pounds worth of damage."

"The property was being refurbished by a housing association which helps people into accommodation when there is a social need.

"You got nothing out of it and caused serious harm to the building.

"This is a serious offence and the damage caused amounts to vandalism."