In a shocking case of repeated crime, 22-year-old Brandon Williams was sentenced for burgling the home of a woman in her 90s twice and stealing a van from another property. Judge Paul Thomas KC described him as a “prolific burglar,” noting the emotional toll and insecurity his actions caused the victims.
Williams first struck in Morriston on November 7, breaking into the elderly woman’s home while she slept and taking £200-£250 meant for boiler repairs. Shockingly, he returned months later for a second burglary. The break-ins left the woman feeling unsafe in her own home, leading her to install new security measures and change her routines.
The drama didn’t end there. Williams went on to steal keys from an unlocked porch of another Morriston home, taking a Nissan van filled with essential work tools. The van was later found in Pontarddulais, and forensic tests linked the crimes back to Williams.
Appearing in Swansea Crown Court, Williams admitted to one burglary and one theft, with additional offences considered. Despite previous convictions including burglaries and thefts, he claimed to have turned back to crime due to personal struggles following a friend’s death.
Judge Thomas emphasised the severity of his actions, especially given the distress caused to the victims, and sentenced Williams to 39 months in prison. While he’s to serve half in custody, questions remain if he can change his ways with family support once released.
It’s a sobering reminder of the impact of crime beyond financial loss, reflecting the emotional scars on victims and the hope for redemption for even the most troubled individuals.