A MAN who caused £15,000 damage to his rented Whitehaven home during a wrecking spree has had his sentencing hearing postponed for six months.
Carlisle Crown Court heard how Shane Martin Kelly phoned police himself, on July 15, to report that he had “smashed his flat up”.
Despite a water entry pipe being broken, causing flooding, 49-year-old Kelly refused to turn off the stop-cock. A “terrified” neighbour also locked himself into his flat at the Coach Road property and contacted police.
Officers who attended found “significant” and “serious” damage to windows, doors, walls, fixtures and fittings caused by Kelly. His landlord had estimated that the cost of repairs would be in the region of £15,000.
Kelly admitted a criminal damage charge and was due to be punished at the crown court today (FRI).
Judge Peter Davies heard of Kelly’s physical and mental health difficulties. But he also read specialist reports which spoke of “positive and real progress”, and opted to defer sentence for six months.
Kelly, now of Jackson Road, Salterbeck, was bailed and urged by the judge to prove himself. He will be sentenced on May 3 next year, when a progress report will be considered.
