A SHERIFF has blasted a serial housebreaker as the worst he has seen in a long time.

Richard Kennedy - who has convictions stretching back 35 years - was back in the dock after his latest raid.

He was held by police after his fingerprint was found on a tin of mints at the house in Glasgow's Woodlands.

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The 52 year-old admitted stealing £1,000 of goods from the property including wallets and electronic items in July last year.

Sheriff Norman Ritchie QC told him: “I have never seen as bad a housebreaker in a long time.

“The harm you have caused to others over the years is incalculable.

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"You have done so for a selfish purpose.

“It says a lot that your family are giving you support as many people would have walked away from someone like you, who has caused a lot of hurt.”

Sentencing was deferred until next month for reports.