A burglar pretending to be a policeman was confronted by a victim after being caught in her kitchen early in the morning, Cardiff Crown Court heard. Jordan Hennessy showed the female householder what looked like a “police badge” following the break-in. This incident was one of four burglaries carried out by Hennessy in just five days, described by his barrister as part of “an eight-day spree to fund a desperate habit”.
During the burglaries, the 25-year-old stole various personal items, including university work, family jewellery, and two cars. However, it was the tracking technology on one of the vehicles that led to his arrest. Hennessy, who has a history of 24 previous offences, was sentenced to 32 months in prison for the string of burglaries in the Roath area of Cardiff.
Hennessy’s criminal record includes inflicting grievous bodily harm, such as stabbing his stepfather with a bread knife during a previous altercation. The court heard that he stole valuables like laptops, cash, passports, phones, bank cards, and car keys from the properties he targeted. Some of the stolen items held significant sentimental value to the victims, causing anxiety and distress.
Two of the victims were university students whose stolen laptops contained crucial coursework. Hennessy used stolen car keys to drive away with two vehicles, one of which was recovered near a homeless centre, while the other led to his arrest after the owner provided tracking information to the police. In court, impact statements from the victims highlighted the emotional impact and loss of security caused by the break-ins.
Hennessy, of no fixed abode, pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including burglary, theft of motor vehicles, driving offences, and fraud. His defence lawyer described his troubled upbringing and subsequent drug use as contributing factors to his criminal behaviour. Despite his remorse and efforts towards rehabilitation in prison, Hennessy was sentenced to 32 months in custody and disqualified from driving for three years.
Judge Paul Hobson emphasized the seriousness of dwelling burglary, noting its invasion of privacy and the distress caused to victims. He acknowledged Hennessy’s remorse and urged him to make positive changes in his life. With discounts for his guilty pleas, Hennessy must serve 40% of his sentence before being eligible for release on licence. The case serves as a reminder of the ongoing impact of crime on individuals and communities.