[O]NE of two burglars who stole belongings from the garage of a house near Alston has been handed a suspended jail term.
Marc Brian Moody and partner-in-crime Gary Smart, both aged 33, were seen by a householder as they left the property, on March 28, and got into a van.
Police were given the registration number and a photo of the van. This was seen and followed on the A686 near Langwathby, where it overtook vehicles at temporary traffic lights and went through a red signal.
Driver Moody led police on a chase up a single track road and into a yard before stopping. He was apprehended and Smart fled but was later detained in Penrith.
The stolen property – two chainsaws and a mountain bike – was recovered.
Moody, of Arthur Terrace, Bishop Auckland, admitted burglary, dangerous driving and failing to stop for police. After hearing mitigation and details of the defendant’s positive recent progress, Recorder Andrew Jefferies QC suspended a 16-month prison sentence for two years.
Moody also received a two-year driving ban and must pay £300 costs.
*Smart, of Rochdale Street, Evenwood, had denied burglary but was convicted after a trial. A warrant for his arrest was issued after he failed to attend today’s sentencing hearing.
