A 28-YEAR-OLD denies burgling a Worcester home and using stole bank cards to make purchases.
Joshua Philpott, previously of Henwick Road and currently of HMP Hewell, appeared at Worcester Magistrates Court on Thursday, (November 30).
Philpott denied five charges - one charge of burglary dwelling and theft, and four of fraud by false representation - when they were read to him by the court clerk.
The prosecution alleges the burglary took place at Baskerville Hall, Shrubbery Avenue, Worcester on June 26 this year.
Philpott, who appeared on videolink to the court from the prison, is alleged to have stolen a wallet and cash valued at £140.
The fraud offences are alleged by the crown to have taken place on June 27 and June 28, the prosecution saying Philpott used the stolen bank card to purchase goods.
MOST READ: Man, 31, narrowly avoids jail for racial abuse and ABH
MOST READ: M5 speed camera catches driver on M5 motorway
Eleanor Peart, prosecuting, told the court that due to the magistrates sentencing powers being insufficient if Philpott was found guilty, the crown was recommending the case being sent to the higher crown court.
She revealed some details about the case, saying the prosecution alleges Philpott went to Baskerville Hall - accommodation for vulnerable residents - and in the night, while a victim was asleep, entered through a window to steal items.
But Gary Harper, defending, said it was the defence case Philpott had not trespassed on the property or stole any of items the crown claimed he had taken.
Philip Newton, chairperson of the magistrates bench, told Philpott they had decided the trial should take place at the higher court.
He told Philpott the next hearing of the case, a trial preparation hearing, will take place on December 14 at Worcester Crown Court.
He told Philpott, as he was in custody, he would again appear by videolink to the court.
Philpott, who was wearing a grey top during the hearing, was told he was being given conditional bail.
The chairperson explained the conditions are that he should not contact the alleged victim either directly or indirectly, through any means and he must not enter Shrubbery Avenue.
"I understand," Philpott said before being told he was free to leave the video booth at the prison.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article