Prolific burglar threatened couple in bed

A teenage burglar committed a string of burglaries and attempted break-ins, including an incident in which he smashed his way into a home and threatened a couple in bed with a machete and a hammer.

- by Nick Frame

Mason Birch was jailed this week at Leeds Crown Court.

The 19-year-old was with another man when they confronted the couple and demanded their safe on the evening of May 4 this year.

They handed over the device, containing £2,000 in cash and £5,000 worth of jewellery, from the top of the wardrobe.

They also took the keys to the couple’s Seat Ibiza, with Birch sarcastically telling the terrified pair: “Thanks for the Ibiza.”