A 40-year-old homeless man who admitted to 26 car break-ins in the past month was yesterday sentenced to seven and a half years in prison.

Kevin Howard, an admitted heroin addict, apologised to the court for damaging ten cars and entering another 16 in search of cash and other valuables.

The offences took place between June 13 and July 18 in Pembroke and Devonshire, the court heard.

In one instance he stole only 35 cents; the car owner, however had to pay $350 in repairs. The damage done to the 26 vehicles is estimated to be more than $5,000.

Howard was also charged with stealing a number of motorcycles, a television from CableVision and a bank card, which he used to make a $159 purchase from International Sports Shop.

When he was arrested for the bike thefts, he claimed that the vehicles were lent to him but could not provide the owners' information.

He apologised to the Magistrate and told him that most of the items stolen had been recovered and he was going through withdrawals at the time of the crimes and is now seeking help.

Mr. Tokunbo said: "You went and started a hurricane before the hurricane actually got here, mashing up people's property. That's terrible man."

Howard replied: "I'm trying to get help. I have talked to my brothers to help me get into a programme in the United Kingdom. I need help I'm tired of this."

On Wednesday, Mr. Tokunbo ordered that Howard be remanded into custody after he admitted breaking into Quality second hand furniture store on Sunday and stealing a box of jewellery, aftershave and tablets.

Mr. Tokunbo ordered a Social Inquiry Report from probation officers.

Howard was caught by store owner Mitra Johnson as he jumped from a side window of her store. She followed him in her car and later called Police.

He told Mr. Tokunbo he took the items because he was hungry.