Social club burglar jailed for two years (From Warrington Guardian)

Man jailed for two years at Chester Crown Court for thefts from Winwick Leisure Centre and Culcheth Sports Club

12:08pm Wednesday 11th April 2012 in News

A BURGLAR who stole equipment and cash from two social clubs has been jailed for two years.

Thomas Sweeney, aged 41, was jailed at Chester Crown Court on Thursday for two burglaries which took place at Winwick Leisure Centre and Culcheth Sports Club in 2011.

Sweeney, formerly from Huyton, Liverpool, pleaded guilty to two counts of burglary.

The court heard on March 28, Sweeney entered the private office quarters ofWinwick Leisure Centre and stole a laptop and a projector.

Three days later he broke into Culcheth Sports Club on Charnock Road and attacked the gaming machines to steal cash.

Speaking after sentencing, Insp Dave Griffiths who heads up Warrington west neighbourhood policing team said "Crimes such as this can have a profound impact upon rural villages, where the backbone of the community is often focused around social clubs and community events.

“The financial effects of crime upon small locally funded organisations, like these, can put their very existence at risk.

“Sweeney targeted these establishments because he thought he would not be caught.

“The work of my officers in identifying him as a suspect, completing a thorough investigation into his movements, and putting him before the courts, is indicative of the professionalism and dedication of our team.

“This conviction is further proof of our determination to catch these people, and to reduce burglary offences in our area."