A SWINDON man who was spotted trying to break in to a number of cars in Toothill has appeared in court.

Richard John Hall pleaded guilty to four counts of vehicle interference at Swindon Magistrates’ Court on Thursday.

The police were called on May 14, 2021 after a member of the public saw that the 38-year-old and another individual were trying to get into cars in the area, the court was told.

Officers attended and witnessed the pair attempting to break into a car on Stamford Close, prosecutor Keith Ballinger said. They ran off but were detained.

A search of the defendant revealed tools, including a hammer, and a black-handled knife.

Defence counsel Mark Glendenning confirmed to the court that the incidents took place whilst he was on a suspended order, for an affray.

He was given a 10-month prison sentence, suspended for two years, in September 2020.

Appearing before Swindon Magistrates’ Court, Hall, of Croft House, Twickenham Close, pleaded guilty to interfering with four vehicles – a Kia Picanto, Volkswagen Golf, Ford Fiesta and Mercedes CLS.

He also admitted going equipped for theft of a motor vehicle and possession of a bladed article in a public place.

Magistrates sent the case to Swindon Crown Court for sentencing, where he is scheduled to attend on February 18.