A BURGLAR who tried to steal a vehicle from a used car dealer was found hiding in a toilet after police kicked the door down.

Christopher Lawrence was caught red-handed after officers were called to Cheaper Car Sales Garage in Caerphilly.

The prolific offender, who has 49 previous convictions for 111 offences, had smashed his way into the business during the early hours of the morning.

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Nik Strobl, prosecuting, told Cardiff Crown Court how Lawrence had caused £2,350 worth of damage after breaking in on Saturday, September 18.

The defendant had gone equipped for the job with a chisel, crowbar and screwdriver.

The 41-year-old was spotted by a passer-by who called 999.

Mr Strobl said: “The police arrived shortly after when he was still inside and he tried to hide in the toilet.

“Officers told the defendant to come out and they kicked down the door and, after a short struggle, he was arrested.”

Lawrence, of Howard Drive, Caerphilly, pleaded guilty to burglary with intent.

The prosecutor said the defendant was recently jailed for another non-dwelling burglary at Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court in October 2019.

He also sentenced to a 12-month prison term for burglary in November 2018.

Rosamund Rutter, representing Lawrence, said her client’s only real mitigation was his early guilty plea.

The judge, Recorder Greg Bull QC, told the defendant: “You were determined to steal a car to visit a sick friend.

“Unfortunately for you, a witness saw you and contacted the police who arrested you before you could make good your escape.”

The judge added: “You have an appalling record.

“Miss Rutter quite rightly said that your only mitigation is your guilty plea.

“There was serious vandalism which is an aggravating feature.”

Lawrence was jailed for 16 months and ordered to pay a £156 surcharge following his release from prison.