Pic: South Wales Police
A man who stole thousands of pounds worth of tools, food, cash and a motorcycle from local businesses has been described as a “menace to his community”.
On Tuesday, October 6, Gary Jones, 38, was sentenced to four years at Cardiff Crown’ Court for three counts of burglary and one count of motor vehicle theft.
Jones, of Church Village, had previously entered guilty pleas for four of seven charges.
The judge heard that Jones, who was on a video call in the hearing from HMP Cardiff, burgled three businesses across Tonypandy and Nelson in south Wales.
From one business in Tonypandy, Jones stole tools worth £8,205.
From a tyre shop in Nelson, the magistrate heard that Jones had taken £750 in cash and tools worth “thousands of pounds”.
Finally, from a Nelson snack bar, he stole £400 worth of food and drinks.
The court also heard that Jones, who wore a blue tracksuit for the hearing, also stole a Honda motorcycle worth £2,000.
Bethan Evans KC, for the prosecution, said Jones’ actions have caused financial consequences for the businesses.
Andrew Taylor, for the defence, said that the defendant had struggled with drug addiction and is “very much at a crossroads” in his life.
Addressing Jones, the judge said “Gary Jones, you have been a menace to your community.”
He continued that due to Jones’ record, which included previous thefts, he had “little prospect of mending [his] ways”.
