A BURGLAR who targeted the home of a woman who “treated him like a brother” has been jailed for 29 months.

Benjamin Heavyside, 29, broke into the house in Wordsworth Street, Barrow, on December 5 2019, and helped himself to an iPad containing the woman’s family photos.

Preston Crown Court heard Heavyside, of Anchor Road, Barrow, has three previous convictions for burglary and has been to prison for his past offences.

Since his release, the victim of his latest crime has fed him, clothed him and been kind to him, the court heard.

When she discovered Heavyside was behind the break-in at her home, she said: “I am shocked at how he has treated me. I have treated him like a brother.”

She now feels scared to be in her house alone and feels she needs to move to feel secure.

The court heard Heavyside has mental health problems including paranoid schizophrenia and PTSD as a result of a traumatic childhood.

He began using drugs at the age of 12 and has been offending to fund his habit ever since.

Heavyside pleaded guilty to dwelling house burglary and appeared in court to face sentence.

Judge Beverley Lunt said: “Your behaviour towards this woman was inexcusable and very, very mean. She helped you and this is how you repaid her kindness?

“No personal history can possibly justify this crime and making this lady a victim like you did.

“She knows it was you who burgled her home but there is no question she still feels vulnerable as a result.”

The judge said the offence fell under the ‘three strike’ provision which means a minimum sentence of three years is to be imposed.

However she reduced the sentence to reflect his guilty plea.

The judge also made a 10 year restraining order banning Heavyside from contacting or communicating the woman by any means.