A prolific burglar who has repeatedly targeted businesses in South Tyneside is back behind bars.
Terence Hatch, 37, received a suspended sentence in February this year for a string shoplifting offences.
However, Hatch quickly fell back into his old ways, and broke into businesses on Mil Dam, Sea Road, and a charity on Sea Winnings Way in South Shields last week (April 22, 26 and 27).
From across the three premises, he stole two charity tins containing money and helped himself to money from inside the tills.
In all cases he gained access by using tools and heavy objects to smash his way inside – causing hundreds of pounds worth of damage in the process.
An investigation was swiftly launched by South Tyneside’s dedicated burglary team who, after conducting enquiries, were able to identify Hatch as their suspect.
Hatch, of Flag House, Westoe Village, was arrested and charged with the offences.
And on Wednesday (April 30), he appeared at South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court where he pleaded guilty to all three offences.
Hatch’s suspended sentence was activated, and he was returned to prison for remainder of his previous sentence. He also received an additional sentence in connection with the three burglaries meaning he received a total sentence of 88 weeks in prison.
Detective Sergeant Kimberley Carr, from one of Northumbria Police’s burglary teams, said: “Hatch has shown no sign of change since he received his suspended sentence and has flouted the law by continually breaking into businesses to try and take what isn’t his.
“Whilst every case of theft and burglary is awful, targeting and stealing from charities is particularly deplorable.
“Burglary is an inexcusable crime which leaves residents, staff and business owners feeling unsafe, and I am glad he’s now in prison and off the streets of South Tyneside – unable to cause anymore chaos in our communities.”
Det Sgt Carr added: “Please know, if you’re involved in this type of criminality, we will do everything within our power to bring you before the courts to face justice.
“We will investigate the reports we receive, and we appreciate the continued support of our communities in reporting if they see anyone acting suspiciously as this can prove crucial in our enquiries.
“As always, we’d always like to ask residents and businesses to help us where you can. Keep your doors secured and locked, keep valuables out of sight, and please try not to leave cash in businesses overnight – or keep it in a locked safe.”
Northumbria Police has three dedicated burglary teams based across the North East who are tasked with reviewing every break-in, pursuing perpetrators and working with partners to help prevent further offences from taking place.
Anyone with information on suspected shoplifting incidents can send Northumbria Police a direct message on social media or use the live chat function and report forms on the Force website.
For those unable to contact police via those ways, call 101.
If a crime is always taking place, ring 999.
About The Reporter
