Burglar who left Swansea grandad terrified jailed

A BURGLAR who attacked a grandfather in his own home has been jailed after leaving his victim terrified he would be targeted again.

Robert Heywood, 66, confronted burglar Wayne Rees after he woke to find him in his home, mid-burglary.

Mr Heywood said he no longer feels safe in his home of 38 years at Llewellyn Circle, Townhill, after he was attacked by the man who burgled him.

Months after the attack on May 25, he said he still woke up wondering "what if" after he tried to tackle Rees, 29.

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Prosecutor Kevin Jones said Mr Heywood had dozed off in a chair in his living room when he woke to find Rees in his home holding his laptop under his arm. He jumped up and grabbed Rees by his collar as he ran past but Rees managed to struggle free.

Mr Heywood jumped on his back and brought the pair to the floor, but Rees again got free.

As he ran away, Rees was later confronted again by a dog walker and despite being chased again, escaped.

It was later discovered Rees, of Gwent Road, Townhill, had also taken a credit card, car keys, mobile phone and a watch as well as change and a £10 note from Mr Heywood's home. He had also gone through his granddaughter's bag, which had been left in the conservatory.

Mr Heywood was left with a broken finger and a sore elbow after the tussle with Rees. He said the injury had meant he could no longer play the guitar, a hobby he took up two years ago, and struggled to complete every day tasks such as opening jars.

Mr Jones said Mr Heywood said he now felt violated in his home.

"He lives in fear of this male returning and has recurring thoughts of 'what if'," said Mr Jones.

Mr Heywood said his "life has changed" after the incident.

In a police statement, Mr Heywood said he felt uneasy and was unable to sleep wondering if he had locked his doors.

Rees had three previous convictions for burglary, Swansea Crown Court was told.

David James, representing Rees, said his client had been struggling with drink and drug problems.

He said he did not intend to attack anyone but was disturbed during the burglary.

He said Rees, who is married with a child, wanted to apologise to his victim.

Judge Keith Thomas jailed Rees for 32 months for burglary and a consecutive four month term for assault. Rees had admitted both offences.