A MAN has admitted breaking into St Paul's College in Kilrea, Co Derry and stealing a holy picture.
Gareth Steven Patrick Hyndman (42), of Bannview Terrace, Portglenone, Co Antrim, committed the offence on August 23 this year.
He appeared at Coleraine Magistrates Court today via video link from Maghaberry Prison.
He also pleaded guilty to going equipped for burglary with a crowbar, mask, gloves and screwdrivers.
Hyndman also had cannabis in his possession when stopped by police in Kilrea in the early hours of August 23 and more of the Class B drug was found during a search of his home.
A prosecutor said police received a report at 5.40am on the day in question of an ongoing burglary at St Paul's College and they stopped the defendant at Bridge Street in Kilrea at 6am.
Hyndman, who has a substantial criminal record including 43 for burglary and 18 of 'going equipped' for burglary, had tried to conceal his face from police.
He was wearing dark clothing and had a black bin liner bag and a backpack.
A holy picture was recovered and the defendant also had cannabis in a tin.
The court was told Hyndman admitted the offences when interviewed.
A defence lawyer asked for a pre-sentence report.
District Judge Peter King adjourned sentencing until October but said: "A non-custodial outcome is the least likely outcome in this case."
