Prison for 'professional' burglar after deli break in

"Professional" burglar Leon Michael Sheeran, 34, has been sentenced to a year in prison after appearing in Masterton District Court last Thursday charged with burglary.

Judge Tom Broadmore said Sheeran was a regular burglar in Australia and New Zealand.

"As far as I can make out, in Australia he's been sentenced to terms of imprisonment for six months for what seems to be the same offences as burglaries in New Zealand, and here we are at night breaking into commercial premises in disguise. It's just another professional job.

"I'm not prepared to deal with it otherwise, other than a sentence of imprisonment," Judge Broadmore said.

Prosecuting Sergeant Garry Wilson said Sheeran had an extensive history of offending.

"I'd agree that a term of one year or more would be appropriate," he said.

A police summary outlined how on May 7, about 11.30pm, Greytown's Main St Deli was burgled.

Two cash register drawers were taken, after entry was gained through a broken pane of glass at the rear of the deli.

A neighbouring shop owner heard an alarm and when checking it out saw Sheeran leaving with two cash drawers.

When the shop owner approached, Sheeran pulled a screwdriver from his jacket pocket and held it towards the shop owner saying "I will get you" before running away.

A police dog tracked Sheeran though several properties and found him hiding in bushes on Main St, near to where the burglary happened.

On a nearby roof a black beanie, black jacket and black woollen gloves, used in the burglary, were found.

Defence lawyer Virginia Pearson said Sheeran, who pleaded guilty to burglary, had a stable address, wanted to get a job and wanted help.

"[He wants] help to reintegrate back into society without this reoffending occurring," Ms Pearson said.

"If it's any comfort to you, you'll be released in six months because your time spent in remand will contribute to your sentence," Judge Broadmore told Sheeran.