WITHIN weeks of avoiding an immediate prison term, a Southampton man broke into a house where he stole about £4,000 worth of property, the city crown court heard.

Now a judge has told Phillip Erting-Haynes he had no option but to send him to jail.

Judge Nicholas Rowland heard how Erting-Haynes had ransacked the house and stolen jewellery as well as other items which had major sentimental value for the owner.

Erting-Haynes, 21, of Northbrook Road, admitted burglary and being in breach of two suspended sentences imposed for affray and assault.

In mitigation, Michael Hill described the burglary as a stupid act of an irresponsible young man.

“It has been a very sobering experience for him being locked up in Winchester Prison for 22 hours every day and it has given him time to reflect on his stupidity and immaturity.”

Erting-Haynes was jailed for a total of 18 months.