A man known as Daryl Johnson, aged 39, repeatedly targeted a hotel in Cardiff, causing havoc and committing several burglaries, as per Wales Online reports. Johnson broke into the Hilton Hotel, causing damage to staff lockers amounting to £1,000, and proceeded to steal items. Additionally, he stole belongings from Farm Food stores and engaged in altercations with staff members who tried to stop him. These criminal activities took place following the end of a relationship and his departure from his job. The sentencing hearing at Cardiff Crown Court revealed details of his crimes, captured on CCTV.
The court proceedings outlined Johnson’s actions, which included breaking into AVIS car hire in Cardiff and stealing a set of car keys and a mobile phone. Subsequently, he targeted the Hilton Hotel in the city centre, where he broke into the staff locker room, taking various items. Furthermore, he stole a Ford Focus from an address in Cowbridge on July 6, which was later found abandoned after a collision, with evidence linking him to the crime. On another occasion, Johnson broke into the Hilton Hotel on July 9, breaking into 36 lockers in the staff room and causing damage amounting to £1,260, in addition to stealing items worth £170.
Continuing his spree, Johnson returned to the Hilton on August 1, forcibly gaining entry to the men’s locker room and stealing two sets of jeans. The following day, he targeted a Farm Foods store in Treseder Way, attempting to steal car keys and wallets from the staff area. When confronted by an employee, Johnson became aggressive, kicking and pushing staff members before fleeing the scene and stealing a Peugeot 108, which was abandoned after a collision. He also used a stolen bank card for fraudulent purchases.
Johnson’s criminal activities extended to August 4 when he was caught on CCTV at Sainsbury’s in Woodville Road, taking items worth £51 concealed in a rucksack. Following his arrest, Johnson pleaded guilty to charges including burglary, theft from a shop, fraud by false representation, aggravated vehicle taking, and common assault. The court learned that he had nine previous convictions related to aggravated vehicle taking and driving offenses. In mitigation, it was disclosed that Johnson suffered from PTSD due to his military service, which contributed to his actions.
Despite the circumstances presented in court, Judge Hywel James sentenced Johnson to 32 months in prison and a 30-month driving disqualification. The case serves as a reminder of the consequences of criminal behaviour and the impact it can have on individuals and the community. Johnson’s actions not only caused financial losses but also instilled fear and distress among the victims involved. It underscores the importance of addressing underlying issues such as mental health and past traumas to prevent such incidents in the future.
In conclusion, the justice system’s response to Johnson’s crimes highlights the need for rehabilitation and support for individuals with complex backgrounds. By understanding the root causes of criminal behaviour and providing appropriate interventions, it is possible to prevent re-offending and promote rehabilitation within the community. The case of Daryl Johnson serves as a cautionary tale, underscoring the importance of addressing underlying issues and providing holistic support to prevent further criminal activities.