Eviction for man who stole neighbour’s boiler

Published by Julien Tremblin for 24dash.com in Housing and also in Local Government

A 31-year-old council tenant has lost his home after being convicted of burglary and serving time in prison.

Adam Johnson of 40 Gaunt Way, Gleadless, broke into his neighbour’s property in May 2011. A boiler was stolen and damage valued at £2000 was caused as a result of the break-in.  Mr Johnson was given a four-month custodial sentence.

In August 2011, a Notice Seeking Possession was served on Mr Johnson, he attended the first hearing at court on 13 October 2011.  He was ordered to file a defence by 27 October but failed to do so. 

The Court then made an order that unless he filed a defence by 25 November 2011, he would be prohibited from defending the claim.  Mr Johnson once again failed to file a defence.

On 27 January 2012 the claim made by Sheffield Homes and the Council was heard in front of District Judge Kirkham. Mr Johnson did not attend. 

In his absence he was ordered to give up possession of his tenancy by 10 February 2012 and that he pay the Council’s  legal costs of £301.75.

Cllr Harry Harpham, Cabinet Member for Homes and Regeneration: “Mr Johnson clearly didn’t care about the impact of his behaviour on his neighbour’s lives.

“We will not tolerate criminal activity taking place in any of our properties and will take swift action, in partnership with the police, to tackle it. In this case Mr Johnson not only has faced a custodial sentence due to his criminal actions but has now also lost his home.”

If Mr Johnson does not leave the property by the date stipulated then the bailiffs will attend to evict him.