Van thief jailed for nine months in Peterborough
Leonard Devall stole two vehicles in separate incidents
Leonard Devall, a 28-year-old from Whitsed Street, Eastfield, Peterborough, has been jailed for nine months after stealing a van and a car in separate incidents.
The first theft occurred on 27th November when Devall approached a workman sitting in his van on Northfield Road, Millfield, demanding money and becoming aggressive.
The victim handed Devall £20 and attempted to call the police, but Devall snatched the phone and took the vehicle's key from the ignition before driving off in the van.
In a second incident on 14th January, Devall took a Mercedes A180 that was left running to defrost in Brynmore, Bretton.
He was arrested after abandoning the car in Saxonbury Way, Fletton, Peterborough.
Leonard Devall admitted charges of theft of a motor vehicle, theft, and taking a vehicle without consent.
PC Levi Peynado of the local police force commented on Devall's behavior:
"Devall's behavior was opportunistic and completely unacceptable.
The victim in the first case was threatened while simply going about his work.
I'm pleased Devall was identified and has now faced justice."