A former pub landlord from Dunstable who burgled his father’s home and tricked the owner of a Bedford guest house was jailed for a year at Luton Crown Court yesterday (Tuesday).
Andrew Ralley, 61, stole sentimental items from his father’s home in Jardine Way, Dunstable while he was on holiday in Austria.
He sold them to an antique dealer in an attempt to pay off his debts to loan sharks.
Ralley, of Benning Avenue, Dunstable then racked up a £4,200 debt when he stayed at The Park Guest House in De Parys Avenue, Bedford after befriending the owner.
He appeared for sentence at Luton Crown Court via a video link from Bedford jail, having pleaded guilty to burglary, fraud, obtaining services dishonesty and obstructing a Constable.
Prosecutor Gabrielle McAvock said Ralley contacted his father when he was away in Austria and asked if he could collect some suitcases from his home. The 82-year-old agreed but once in the house his son stole furniture, crockery, a vase and a stuffed animal.
He had received £600 for some of the items. When questioned by his father he said he needed them because he was opening a tea shop.
Ralley then went on to stay at the guest house for 86 nights between 23 July and 17 October last year. He told the owner, who he had befriended, that his name was Tony Bone and paid £100 for the first two nights, but after that gave him no money.
When he was arrested he told the police his name was Tony Bone.
Defending, John Lloyd-Richards said, “He had an acrimonious marriage break-up. He owed money to loan sharks. He needed to satisfy the debts and took advantage of his father being away.
“He was in a panic and accepts it was completely reprehensible conduct. He feels gutted and ashamed.”
Mr Lloyd-Richards said he had taken advantage of his friendship with the guest house owner, but now intends to pay him back when he is released from prison.
Judge Andrew Bright QC said, “It was a nasty burglary . He took advantage of his father and it was serious and sentimental items were taken.”
He told him, “What you did was mean and nasty. You targeted your father’s home.’
Referring to the Bedford fraud, the judge said that Ralley had already served the equivalent of a 10 month sentence. He told him, “Locking you up for a long time will be counter- productive as you will not be able to pay compensation.”
The judge jailed him for a total of 12 months and said he must pay £150 a month compensation over the next two years to the guest house owner.
