A CONVICTED criminal found in possession of a "stun gun" committed burglaries across York and North Yorkshire, it was alleged at York Crown Court.

Keith Baker, who had previously served eight years in prison making it illegal for him to possess a firearm, committed a number of burglaries over the Christmas period last year.

He pleaded guilty to five offences of burglary in Ripon, Poppleton and Acomb last December and January, but denied a further seven burglaries and a drugs offence. The court was told that it had not yet been decided whether to drop these charges or leave them lying on the file.

Baker's trawl included a wide range of goods, from cameras, binoculars, CDs, video games, golf equipment, shotgun cartridges, clothing and a camcorder.

He also pleaded guilty to possessing the stun gun, a dangerous firearm that, as a convicted felon, he was prohibited from holding.

"They are all good quality house burglaries across the North Yorkshire area," said Judge Gavin Barr Young.

"Clearly a significant custodial sentence is called for," he said.

Defence counsel Nicholas Johnson said Baker had worked hard to turn his life around since being caught in February. He said he had come off drugs, which had fuelled much of his crime, and had become involved in a fight to gain access to see his daughter.

Judge Barr Young adjourned the case to await pre-sentencing and medical reports.

Updated: 12:14 Saturday, July 19, 2003