Burglar's last-minute guilty plea

Published on 30th November 2006 in News

A GOOLE crook has been jailed after being caught red-handed at the scene of a burglary.

Martyn Green (42), of Limetree Avenue, initially had the audacity to deny the offence despite having a record of 28 previous convictions, including one for burglary and being seen by the police inside the house.

However, he changed his plea to guilty at Hull Crown Court on Tuesday and so avoided a trial.

Mr Green, who appeared from cells below court, admitted a charge of burglary in Marshfield Road, Goole, in June 19 this year.

Dressed in a blue T-shirt and jeans he spoke to confirm his name and said: "Guilty" when the burglary charge was read to him. He admitted being a trespasser, but insisted he did not force entry.

Defence barrister Patricia Docherty told the court: "The matter had been listed for a two-day trial on December 4. A basis of plea has been put to the court. The defendant is in custody, and I would ask for a pre-sentence report."

Judge John Dowse ordered Mr Green to stand as he told him: "I note you have 28 previous convictions, including house burglary, on your record, although it is fair to say you have slowed down over the years. You will be remanded in custody."

The judge ordered the Humberside Probation Service to prepare a report, before Mr Green is sentenced in around three weeks' time. He was handcuffed and taken to cells below court and a prison van.