Burglar says “Drugs have ruined my life” as he is jailed for Washington property attack

A burglar with a spree of previous convictions has been jailed after an attack on a property in Washington which left a family terrified

Liam Miles got into the house through a rear patio door and took property including clothing, a computer, handbag and bank cards.

He also raided the shed during the break-in, while the family were asleep upstairs, on January 15.

Liam Miles got into the house through a rear patio door and took property including clothing, a computer, handbag and bank cards.

He also raided the shed during the break-in, while the family were asleep upstairs, on January 15.

Miles, 32, of no fixed address, admitted burglary and fraud.

Judge Sarah Mallett sentenced him to two years and five months behind bars.The judge said: “The complainant described a month after the event how she was still no longer feeling safe in her home.

“She was obviously particularly troubled by the knowledge you had been at the bottom of the stairs when she was asleep upstairs, worried about what could have happened.”

Fiona Lamb, defending, said Miles has sought help with his problems and had written a letter to the court while in custody on remand.

Part of the letter said: “I am sorry I have burgled the owner’s house and all the stress, I am very sorry.

“Drugs have ruined my life, I need help with my drug problem.”

Miles asked for “one more chance” to keep his freedom and to get help with his drug problem, which the judge rejected.