CHATTERIS: Men Caught Stealing From Pymoor Farm Have Appeared In Court
TWO men caught stealing valuable equipment from a Pymoor farm appeared in court last week. Freddie Shepherd, 33, and Duncan Brittain, 31, both of Fenland Way, Chatteris, were each charged with theft after being caught loading their van with �4,000-worth o
TWO men caught stealing valuable equipment from a Pymoor farm appeared in court last week.
Freddie Shepherd, 33, and Duncan Brittain, 31, both of Fenland Way, Chatteris, were each charged with theft after being caught loading their van with �4,000-worth of equipment on April 10.
Both pleaded guilty when they appeared before Ely Magistrates Court on Thursday.
Crown prosecutor Delia Matthews told the court that the pair were spotted loading a Transit van with farm equipment and car parts.
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She said: "It was midday and one of the owners heard the van drive onto the property but believed it was visiting the other owner, who runs a car parts business.
"The gentleman then heard loud noises and saw the van being loaded his property.
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"Mr Shepherd then threw some metal rims out of the van and drove off over a field. He collided with a tree and left the number plate behind."
The farm owner followed the van and called police, who stopped Shepherd and Brittain at Mepal.
The court heard that Shepherd has a "very long" criminal record and was released from prison in July, after serving a sentence for burglary.
Brittain's previous record was described as "significant, but less than Mr Shepherd".
The police have requested the forfeiture of the van and driving ban be imposed on Shepherd.
Adam Hazelhurst, representing Shepherd, said: "Mr Shepherd is out on license. His probation officer is aware of his current situation but a decision has not been made to recall him.
"My client has pleaded guilty at the first opportunity. He has a driving license - he passed his test in December - and the police already have the van."
He added: "All the property has been recovered so the owners have not actually suffered any loss."
Magistrates adjourned sentencing until May 14, so that pre-sentence reports could be compiled.
They urged Brittain, who was not represented in court, to get a solicitor as he could be facing a custodial sentence.
