A Tyrone pensioner chased two burglars after discovering two men in her property.
The woman, described in court as “courageous,” disturbed a burglary in process and chased the men in her car when they fled the scene.
As well as being commended by the judge, the victim’s actions even drew praise from a defence barrister who remarked “she deserves great credit in almost single-handedly bringing (the burglars) to justice."
However, after admitting the charges, the two burglars received a fine and are to return to their home which is only a short distance from the victim, although they are banned from entering her road.
Appearing before Dungannon Magistrates Court were Romanians, Raves Constan (42) and Miha-Vasile Pintiala (45) both of Drumreaney Avenue, Castlecaulfield who pleaded guilty to the joint charge of entering a property at 8.30pm on July 12 as trespassers and stealing items.
The pensioner lives beside the targeted premises in Castlecaulfield, which she also owns. After hearing noises she found Constan in the kitchen. Along with Pintiala, who was outside, they attempted to make their escape towards Castlecaulfield.
The victim gave chase in her car and flagged down police.
The pair were arrested and charged, both making full admissions during interview.
Defence counsel for Constan said his client accepted being in the house and rummaging through cupboards and wardrobes. He apologised for his actions.
Defence for Pintiala describing the theft as unsophisticated. He said his client was supporting his family in his native Romania and the incident had been a “short, sharp, shock”
Addressing the par through an interpreter Deputy District Judge Gerry Trainor said, “Both of you have admitted the charges and in such offences the court would be considering custody. However certain factors have persuaded me not to take that option.”
The judge took into account the immediate guilty pleas and the fact both men are supporting their families financially in Romania.
He imposed a fine of £200 each on Constan and Pintiala and ordered them to collectively pay £50 to cover the cost of the forced door lock.
Judge Trainor added: “Courageous though this lady is, she will not want to see either of you looking over her hedge. I see no reason for you to be on her road.”
They were also bound over to keep the peace for 18 months in the sum of £300 each, with a specific requirement not to enter the area of the victim’s road, either on foot or in a vehicle.
