Man jailed for 4 years for breaking into students house in Hull

The judge said the victim had been significantly affected by the incident

Author: Julie CastonPublished 19th Dec 2022

A man who broke into a students house in Hull and stole a car has been jailed for four years.

Lee Phillips, aged 46, of no fixed address, appeared at Hull Crown Court last week, where he pleaded guilty to a burglary on Cottingham Road, Hull, on Monday 17 October.

Phillips got in through an upstairs window and despite being confronted by the occupant continued to take car keys from the kitchen.

DS Andy Bradley said: “This was a traumatic experience for the victim, who was in the property at the time and could see Phillips trying to gain entry through an upstairs window.

“Phillips continued, undeterred by the interaction with the occupant, and stole their car from the drive. We are very aware that burglaries have long-lasting effects on victims, and I would like to praise the victim for their courage and assistance.

“I would hope that the sentenced passed out today will give Phillips time to take a long, hard look at his lifestyle choices and consider the implications of these decisions.”

Judge John Thackray KC said: "You have been burgling people's houses now for 30 years. You have had numerous significant custodial sentences. You are essentially serving a life sentence in instalments.

"Some people never recover from being the victim of a dwelling burglary. It's clear that the victim of the burglary here has been significantly affected by your conduct.”

Phillips was sentenced to four years in jail and also banned for driving for two years and nine months.