A 22-year-old was last week sentenced to three months’ prison for his second burglary offence.

Shawn Uriaere appeared before Justices of the Peace Tangi Taoro, Georgina Williams and Vania Kenning at the Criminal Court in Avarua for sentencing on Wednesday.

He pleaded guilty to burglary.

On November 4, 2021, Uriaere and an associate entered the house of a man, entering through the side window. He took several items, including Playstation game, alcohol, wines, a power drill and a bundle of hunting arrows.

When interviewed by police, he denied entering the house, but admitted being on the person’s property.

“You are known to the justice system for previous acts of dishonesty,” the JPs said.

“The victims have to live with a sense of mistrust because of your violation of their privacy.”

The JPs noted Uriaere appeared before the Court for a burglary offence in 2017.

“The fact this is your second burglary offence is a cause for concern,” the JPs said.

“You have continued to reoffend. The guilty plea deduction is not applicable in this case, as you admitted guilt five months after being charged.

“It seems your previous burglary charge did not deter you from committing the act again.”

The JPs convicted Uriaere and sentenced him to three months’ prison and 12 months’ probation.

He was ordered to pay reparations of $250, on top of outstanding reparations of $1310.