A burglar who crept into a stranger's bedroom while he slept audaciously told him 'I'm off' as he made his escape with a stolen bicycle. The victim was asleep in the early hours of September 19, 2024, when he was disturbed by a noise and discovered Steven Riach standing in the doorway of his room.
Court Hearing Details
Newcastle Crown Court heard that Riach falsely claimed he had entered the property after noticing the door was open. However, he was then heard searching two other rooms before shouting 'I'm off'. By the time the victim got dressed, Riach had already fled the house, taking a bicycle valued at £700.
The court was told that the victim found the experience 'very unnerving' and was left fearing that Riach or someone like him might return. The incident has had a lasting impact on the victim's sense of security.
Defendant's Background and Sentence
Riach, 42, of Simonside Terrace, Heaton, Newcastle, has a criminal record comprising 57 previous convictions. He admitted to burglary and was sentenced by Recorder Dapinder Singh KC to 22 months in prison.
In mitigation, defence barrister Kelly Clarke stated: 'He apologises for his behaviour towards the complainant.' The apology, however, did not mitigate the severity of the crime in the eyes of the court.
The case highlights the ongoing issue of burglary in residential areas, with offenders targeting homes while occupants are asleep. Authorities urge residents to remain vigilant and ensure doors and windows are secure, particularly at night.
