Jail terms for trio caught red-handed during burglary

Police were called to a property in River Hill, Flamstead at approximately 4.40am on Thursday, June 25, by a neighbour who had heard suspicious activity.

Officers arrived and found one of the men placing stolen items, including 
copper piping and power tools, into a transit van.

The other two were then found inside the property.

All three men were 
promptly arrested and charged with burglary.

Raul Herea, 24, Romica Bostenaru, 19, and 24-year-old Ionut Patrascu, all from Blackhorse Road, Walthamstow, London, appeared at Hatfield Remand Court the following day and pleaded guilty.

Bostenaru was sentenced to eight weeks in prison, while Herea and Patrascu were both sentenced to 16 weeks.

They were all ordered to pay costs and victim 
surcharge, totalling £345.

Detective Inspector Sam Khanna who leads the Dacorum Local Crime Unit said: “Thanks to the quick-thinking of the neighbour who contacted police after hearing suspicious noises, police were able to attend and catch them in the act.

“I would urge anyone who sees or hears behaviour which is suspicious to make contact with police immediately. You could help us fight crime and bring offenders to justice.”

Anyone who has information about any crime can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.