A BURGLAR targeted his neighbours' home knowing they were on holiday, Durham Crown Court heard.
But Michael O'Brien was unaware the family had asked a friend to house-sit.
O'Brien gained access to the house in Warwick Square, Darlington, by smashing a kitchen window. But as he went into a bedroom he woke the house-sitter, who recognised him, Roger Moore, prosecuting, told the court.
Although he had previously denied burglary, O'Brien, 31, of Witton Crescent, pleaded guilty yesterday.
Dan Cordey, mitigating, said the break-in was committed while O'Brien was under the influence of drink and drugs, which he was trying to overcome.
He was jailed for three years
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