Daniel Harris, 36, of Colman Close, appeared at Basingstoke Magistrates’ Court on Friday, January 10, where he pleaded guilty to damaging electrical cables and lighting valued at under £1,000.
The incident occurred on June 17, 2024, at the hospice in Basingstoke.
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The court heard that Harris acted “without lawful excuse” and caused damage to the property either intending to do so or being reckless as to whether the property would be damaged.
Prosecutors argued that the offence showed a “flagrant disregard for people and their property.”
Harris was sentenced to eight months in prison, suspended for 12 months. During this period, he must comply with a rehabilitation activity requirement, attending up to 10 days of appointments and activities as directed by his responsible officer.
The court also ordered Harris to pay £480 in compensation to St Michael’s Hospice for the damage caused.
In passing sentence, the court stated that the offence was serious enough to warrant a custodial sentence, citing the nature of the act and its impact on the community.
However, the guilty plea was taken into account, which contributed to the decision to suspend the custodial term.