AN industrial worker who smashed a dental surgery window in a 'moment of madness' has been prosectued - almost two years after the offence.

James Bennett smashed the window of Victoria Dental Surgery, in Victoria Road, Darlington, on October 27, 2012.

He was caught after DNA from blood left at the scene was matched to his own.

The 20-year-old appeared at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates' Court on Wednesday (July 2) and admitted one charge of criminal damage.

Prosecutor John Garside said damage worth £102.44 was caused to the surgery.

He added: "The offence went unnoticed until recently, when the defendant's DNA became known to the police and matched what was left near the scene.

"He told police he could not explain why he was there."

Bennett, of Westlands Road, Darlington, had previous convictions for being drunk and disorderly and resisting arrest.

Representing himself, he told magistrates: "I was young and stupid and had had a drink after getting some bad news.

"I have no real investigation, it was just a moment of madness."

Bennett, who works on Faverdale Industrial Estate, in Darlington, was ordered to pay compensation for the broken window and £85 costs.