A man who stole thousands of pounds worth of tools, food, cash and a motorcycle from local businesses has been described as a menace to his community.
On Tuesday Gary Jones, 38, was sentenced to four years at Cardiff Crown Court for three counts of burglary and one count of theft of a motor vehicle. Jones, of Church Village, had previously entered guilty pleas for four of seven charges.
Details of the burglaries
The judge, Richard Booth, heard that Jones, who was on a video call in the hearing from HMP Cardiff, burgled three businesses across Tonypandy and Nelson.
From one business in Tonypandy Jones stole tools worth £8,205. From a tyre shop in Nelson Jones had taken £750 in cash and tools worth thousands of pounds. And from a Nelson snack bar he stole £400 worth of food and drinks.
Court statements and sentencing
The court also heard that Jones, who wore a blue tracksuit for the hearing, also stole a Honda motorcycle worth £2,000.
Bethan Evans KC, for the prosecution, said Jones’ actions have caused significant financial consequences for the businesses.
Andrew Taylor, for Jones, said the defendant had struggled with drug addiction and is “very much at a crossroads” in his life.
Addressing Jones, Judge Booth said: “Gary Jones, you have been a menace to your community.” He continued that due to Jones’ record, which included previous thefts, he had “little prospect of mending [his] ways”.
