Burglar 'stole to pay for drugs'

A 30-year-old man who burgled three homes to pay for his drug habit has been jailed for four years.

Anthony Harman, of Hangleton Way, Hove, raided two properties in Norway Road and one in Gleton Avenue, Hangleton, in December 2003, Lewes Crown Court heard.

He was caught by police in one of the homes with a flick-knife and then about £1,600 was found at his home which they believed to be the proceeds of crime.

Harman admitted aggravated burglary, burglary and handling stolen goods.

He also asked for a further burglary charge to be taken into consideration.

The court heard the father-of-two stole camera equipment and cigarettes from the properties.

He had previously been jailed for burglary and handling stolen goods, with 19 convictions for 81 offences.