Burglar trapped by beer can DNA

Nicholas Lyon has a previous conviction for burglary

A burglar with a drinking problem left a clue on a drinks can when he raided a local house, a court has heard.

Nicholas Lyon, 25, of Pentre Halkyn, near Mold took a swig from the beer can and left it on a television as he stole a hifi and speakers from his victim.

A DNA test confirmed it was his saliva on the can but when arrested Lyon denied being involved, the court heard.

Lyon, who initially pleaded not guilty to burglary but changed his plea to guilty, was jailed for 20 months.

Mold Crown Court heard that Lyon originally claimed he knew the victim David Stokes, and had previously been to his home in Pentre Halkyn and had drunk beer there.

When police asked for an explanation on how the stolen property had been recovered from his own bedroom, he claimed to have bought it from a man he would not name, the court was told.

Des Perry, prosecuting said that Mr Stokes had lived at the address for 25 years and on 18 July while empty it was burgled.

Alcohol intake

A large amount of property including a stereo system, an amplifier and some personal items were stolen, he said.

Simon Rogers, defending, told the court that the crux of his client's problem was his alcohol intake.

He had a significant alcohol problem, and while it was no excuse, he was under the influence of alcohol during the burglary, said Mr Rogers.

He added the defendant appreciated he had to stop, he had not drunk alcohol for two or three months, had a job interview and wanted to become a positive member of the community.

His parents were standing by him and he had become engaged to his partner over Christmas, Mr Rogers told the court.

"False defence"

But in sentencing Lyon, Judge John Rogers QC said Lyon had burgled the property when he knew the occupiers were not in and stole a substantial amount of property.

"Initially you put forward a totally false defence," said the judge.

"The matter was listed for trial but to your credit, before the trial took place, you did indicate a plea of guilty.

"Unfortunately in the past you have a conviction for burglary. The last occasion, in October 2005, you were sentenced to 12 months imprisonment.

"On this occasion, the sentence will be 20 months imprisonment."