Mathew McPolin, a career criminal with a history of violence, attempted to burgle Luis's Bar and Kitchen, a popular restaurant on Newcastle's Quayside, but left empty-handed. The 2022 jailbird, who was sentenced for attacking his girlfriend with a mop handle and threatening to kill people with a knife, admitted the attempted burglary at Newcastle Magistrates' Court.
Details of the Attempted Burglary
According to prosecutor Clare Haswell, McPolin and another individual approached Luis's on September 12 last year and kicked in the front door, causing damage estimated between £200 and £300. They entered with the intention to steal but left without taking anything. Haswell noted, "They were not able to steal anything, hence why the charge is an attempt."
McPolin's Criminal History
McPolin was jailed for 19 months in 2022 after forcing his way into his girlfriend's home, hitting her in the face with a mop handle, and waving a 10-inch knife while shouting, "I'm going to kill people." He pleaded guilty to affray, using violence to secure entry, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, possessing a bladed article, and criminal damage. After release, he continued offending.
Court Proceedings
Initially denying the attempted burglary, McPolin claimed he was "looking for a place to sleep." He changed his plea to guilty on the day his trial was due to start. His defense lawyer, Jack Lovell, requested an adjournment to consolidate sentencing with other matters scheduled for July 27. Magistrates granted unconditional bail until that date.
