Teenage burglar is spared jail so he can go and club baby seals

A Worcester teenager who admitted burglary has been spared custody to take up jobs abroad. Jack Taylor has a contract to work as a slaughterman in Norway and is wanted to take part in the culling of baby seals in Alaska, Worcester Crown Court was told. So, although his offence merited custody, Recorder Edward Coke gave him a six-month community order and said he must carry out 100 hours of unpaid work.

Taylor, aged 18, of Monarch Drive, was also ordered to pay £340 costs, £75 compensation to his victim and observe a 7pm to 7am curfew for three months. The recorder said Taylor had “got off his backside” to work. He considered it was important for a young man with a girlfriend to be in employment.


Photo from SWNS.

Taylor was arrested near his home in the early hours of August 19 last year when householders were woken by the sound of a 50cc motorcycle being dragged along their drive. The bike had been taken from the garage and when the intruders were spotted they ran off, dropping the machine on to the floor and breaking the wing mirror, said Alex Warren, prosecuting.

Taylor and a 15-year-old boy were arrested, but no action was being taken against the juvenile. Siobhan Collins, defending, said Taylor had no previous convictions and was supported by his family. He had taken the motorcycle because he thought cannabis was hidden under the saddle. Since the offence, he had reduced his alcohol intake and was spending more time with his girlfriend and family. He was suffered real remorse and was anxious to take the jobs offered to him.