A man has been given a suspended jail sentence for a burglary at a house in Honley when the family were asleep inside.
Leeds Crown Court heard Daniel Boltwood was traced after leaving his DNA on glass on the door through which entry was gained and car keys stolen on February 4 this year.
A Citroen C4 taken from the driveway was later found burnt out on a business park in Huddersfield but a child’s car seat from the vehicle was later recovered, having been given by Boltwood to his girlfriend, said Paul Fleming prosecuting.
Michael Sisson-Pell representing Boltwood said he had bought a motor cycle for £3,000 which had been stolen before he could finish paying for it to the owner. He was told he must still pay the full amount and was beaten when he protested.
He was then picked up in a vehicle and taken to the house involved where he stood lookout. “He felt compelled under threats to go along with them and at that time was under the influence of alcohol.”
He had not seen other vehicles taken at the property and it was possible the men with him had been there already that night.
“He played a lesser role subject to pressure. He apologises through me to those offended against.” He said Boltwood was also a carer for his mother.
Boltwood, 27 of Gilbert Grove, Walpole, Huddersfield, admitted burglary and theft and asked for one offence of attempted burglary to be taken into consideration.
He was sentenced to 20 months in prison suspended for two years with a 30 day activity requirement and 180 hours unpaid work.
Recorder Ray Singh told him it was only through good fortune the householder was not disturbed but he accepted his remorse was genuine.
