Two burglars, Teejay Thomas, 34, and Michael Truman, 35, were apprehended by police after a dramatic chase involving a stolen van. The pair had burgled two properties in Newport and attempted to burgle another in Caerphilly before being stopped by law enforcement. The sequence of events unfolded on the evening of December 14 last year, leaving a trail of stolen items and high-speed pursuit in their wake.
The spree began with a burglary on Pentre Tai Road in Newport, where Thomas and Truman pilfered a Prada bag containing perfume and Asics trainers worth £150 from underneath a Christmas tree. The duo then proceeded to another burglary in White Avenue, Newport, where they made off with a white Ford Transit containing items valued at £1,000 after taking a set of keys from the property.
Police were alerted, and an officer spotted the stolen Transit being driven on the B4239, followed by a red Honda Jazz. A pursuit ensued, leading to the deployment of stingers to stop the stolen van. Despite an attempt to switch vehicles, both culprits were eventually caught after abandoning the Jazz and trying to flee on foot, with Thomas found hiding in long grass.
During the subsequent court hearing at Cardiff Crown Court on March 26, it was revealed that Truman had prior involvement in the theft of a Volkswagen Caravelle in Llandaff the previous year. The stolen vehicle was later discovered with significant internal damage in Splott, leading to Truman’s implication through DNA evidence recovered from the gearstick.
Thomas, residing in Clos Hafod yr Ynys, St Mellons, admitted guilt to burglary, attempted burglary, and dangerous driving, with a history of 30 previous convictions, notably for burglary. Truman, from Dessmuir Road, Splott, pleaded guilty to burglary and aggravated vehicle taking and had amassed 36 previous convictions, including attempted burglary and theft.
In court, it was disclosed that Thomas had been trying to turn his life around by securing a training position at a barbershop, but personal tragedies within his family pushed him off course. Similarly, Truman’s mental health deteriorated following a prison sentence, leaving him struggling upon release due to a long-standing issue with alcohol and institutionalisation over the past decade.
Judge Hywel James, presiding over the case, condemned the burglaries as a significant violation that inflicted high anxiety on the victims. He sentenced Thomas to 45 months imprisonment and Truman to 42 months, with both individuals facing a 12-month driving disqualification post-release. The judicial decision aimed to serve as a deterrent against such criminal activities and to hold the perpetrators accountable for their actions.
The apprehension of these burglars serves as a reminder of the swift and decisive action taken by law enforcement to combat criminal activities in the community. The collaborative efforts of the police in pursuing and capturing the offenders demonstrate a commitment to upholding law and order, ensuring that those who break the law face justice accordingly. Such incidents underscore the importance of vigilance and swift response in maintaining public safety and security.
This case reinforces the authorities’ dedication to apprehending individuals who engage in criminal behaviour, sending a clear message that such actions will not go unpunished. The sentencing of Thomas and Truman reflects the gravity of their offences and serves as a deterrent to others who may consider breaking the law. The diligence and perseverance exhibited by law enforcement in this case highlight the unwavering commitment to protecting communities and holding wrongdoers accountable.