Fake burglary at girlfriend's home in Verlaine: work sentence after appeal
A 22-year-old man staged a fake burglary at his ex-girlfriend's home. Sentenced to 13 months, he ultimately received 150 hours of community service.
Work sentence for Verlaine man behind fake burglary
A 22-year-old man from Verlaine received a community service sentence of 150 hours after challenging an initial conviction to 13 months in prison, reports DHnet. The facts date back to June 2024: the man staged a burglary at his girlfriend's home, taking advantage of the parents' absence as they were on holiday.
A total of €4,800 was stolen during this staging. The majority of the sum — €3,800 — belonged to the young woman's younger brother, savings accumulated over the years through birthday and Christmas gifts.
After contesting his default judgment, the defendant appeared before the Huy court last month. He expressed his regrets and apologies to his ex-girlfriend's family. Through his solicitor, he also indicated that he had set aside an equivalent sum in a bank account and was simply awaiting the court's approval to proceed with the payment.
The €3,800 was restituted in the days following the hearing. The court then decided to grant a favour to the young man from Verlaine by replacing the prison sentence with 150 hours of work. In case of non-compliance, a one-year prison sentence will be automatically applied.
The convicted man must also pay €1,020.35 in procedural costs.
The case was heard on Thursday, 8 October 2024 before the Huy court.
Source: DHnet