Burglars kick down friend’s door and steal DJ decks and tablet
Two men heavily intoxicated as they break into victim’s Cardiff home
A former friend’s house in Cardiff was broken into by two men who kicked down the door and made away with DJ decks, a tablet, and damaged other electronics. Steven Wheatley, 22, and Tyler Youd, 20, were under the influence when they broke into Mohammed Khan’s home on January 31. The victim discovered the break-in upon returning home to find his front door kicked in. During a sentencing hearing at Newport Crown Court, it was revealed that a set of DJ decks and a Samsung Galaxy Tab Pro were missing, while a TV and two Chromebook laptops were beyond repair. CCTV footage from a nearby Domino’s restaurant captured the two men inside the shop before they proceeded to enter Mr. Khan’s flat by force, taking the items. The victim identified the burglars as Wheatley and Youd. Both defendants admitted to the burglary and claimed they had little recollection of the events due to heavy intoxication from alcohol and pregabalin. Wheatley, residing in Dyfrig Court, Llantwit Major, and Youd, from Andrew Road, Penarth, were arrested. They were known to be of good character prior to the incident. In a victim impact statement, Mr. Khan expressed his fear and betrayal, stating he had since moved out of the flat as it no longer felt safe. He had lost trust in the individuals who were once his friends. Defence lawyers for Wheatley and Youd argued that the burglary was out of character for both men. They highlighted the defendants’ efforts to address their substance abuse issues and make positive changes. Recorder Andrew Hammond called the crime a “profound breach of friendship” as he handed down sentences. Wheatley received a six-month suspended prison term, with requirements including alcohol abstinence and community service. Youd was sentenced to six months in a young offenders’ institute, along with community work and a rehabilitation program. Both defendants were ordered to pay £100 each in compensation, as well as costs. The incident serves as a reminder of the impact of crime on victims and the importance of taking responsibility for one’s actions to rebuild trust and relationships.