An 11-year-old boy woke up at around 3 AM to find an intruder, Robert Harvey, 34, in his bedroom eating crisps. The boy initially pretended to be asleep and messaged his family group chat, then saw Harvey enter his sisters' rooms before confronting him.
Harvey mumbled incoherently, reportedly about a toilet seat, and the parents believed he was under the influence of drugs. The parents attempted to escort Harvey out of the house, and he eventually left.
Following his departure, the family discovered that £10 cash and a packet of cigarettes were missing from the mother's purse, and various snacks were scattered throughout the kitchen. Harvey was apprehended shortly after with four packets of crisps, cigarettes, and two £10 notes.
Harvey confessed to being intoxicated and acknowledged his actions. He has a history of 44 previous convictions for 61 offenses, primarily acquisitive crimes like shoplifting, and had been recalled to prison for drug-related offenses.
Despite his criminal record, his defense argued he had been complying with probation and had a job, and that this burglary was out of character. Harvey expressed deep remorse and shame for the incident and the fear it caused the children.
Appearing in court via video link, Harvey pleaded guilty to one count of burglary. He was sentenced to 14 months in prison.
The judge acknowledged the terrifying experience for the family and that the offense was out of character, but also noted Harvey's long history of dishonesty. The judge also recognized Harvey's remorse and steps being taken in custody for rehabilitation.
