Jail time for stealing car

Gary Christopher Clarkin, 23, from Galway Street in Belfast, appeared at Lisburn Magistrates Court this week charged with aggravated taking of a vehicle.

He was also charged with possession of a screwdriver and latex gloves for use in connection with a burglary.

The court heard that on May 28, the police pursued a vehicle believed to be stolen. Following the deployment of a stinger device, police pursued the occupants of the vehicle on foot. Clarkin was one of the defendants arrested as a result of the operation.

Defence said Clarkin denied any involvement in a burglary but admitted he did get into the car, which was said to be an Alfa Romeo.

“He accepts he mistakenly stayed in the car and accepts his culpability,” said the defence.

The defence also told the court that the defendant was currently in prison after a three year licence, which lasts until March 16, 2017.

“He has been in custody since May 28 and I would ask for credit for his plea at the earliest opportunity,” he added.

District Judge Rosie Watters said she had “no alternative but to impose an immediate custodial sentence.”

Ms Watters imposed a sentence of five month on each of the two charges. She also ordered the defendant to pay an Offender’s Levy of £25.