Homeless teenager stole from host who invited him to stay

Kyle Batty, 18, of East Farm Cottages, Cleadon, visited the house to see the daughter of the owner, who was looking after it while other family members were on holiday, Sunderland Magistrates’ Court heard.

Justin Gibson, prosecuting. said: “The arrangement was that he would lock the house and leave the key in a shed. He did this, but it was later found jewellery, watches, a camera and other items had been taken.”

The court heard Batty sold some of the items to a man who realised where they had come from, and contacted the owner.

Batty admitted theft on September 16, last year.

Jason Smith, defending, said: “This offence was committed while he was homeless. He is ashamed and embarrassed by what he has done.”

The court heard it is not clear if the house owner had made a successful insurance claim for the theft.

The magistrates adjourned the case for inquiries to be made about the house owner’s insurance claim.

Batty was bailed until April 5.