Lookout in tragic raid spared custody

Craig Bull, aged 18, of Maple Road, Dudley, was given the community order and ordered to pay £170 costs by Halesowen magistrates yesterday. He had pleaded guilty to a charge of burglary at a previous hearing.

The court heard Bull had been "traumatised" after two other raiders, Steven Gough and Colin Martin, suffocated when they accidentally set off a fire system which released carbon dioxide aimed at smothering flames.

Another man, Jonathan Deeming, was saved after Gough managed to pass his mobile phone to Bull so he could call 999.

Magistrates were told Gough, a qualified electrician, had been "like a second father" to Bull and had taken him along on legitimate jobs.

They heard Bull only realised a burglary was planned when the gang arrived at the deserted Montana nuts and Bolts factory in Blackheath.

But because he had "a bad feeling" about the situation he had decided to remain outside.

Mr Mark Cooper, prosecuting, said the men had gone to the building to steal copper from an electricity sub-station.

"When originally questioned by the police Bull said he was simply passing by when he saw the smoke caused by the carbon dioxide," he said. "He later admitted his greater role in the events."

Miss Sabhia Pathan, defending, said: "Mr Gough had visited Bull earlier in the day and asked if he would accompany him on a job. Mr Gough was like a second father to him and he had accompanied him on legitimate jobs.

"He decided to go along as he believed this to be one of these legitimate jobs and it was only when they arrived he realised something was not quite right and the enterprise not a lawful matter.

"He had a bad feeling about what was going on and this was why he decided to remain outside.

"He has been traumatised by nightmares after what happened. He heard the screams of those inside. Mr Gough called to him to ring 999 but he did not have a mobile on him. Mr Gough was able to pass his through a small opening. His quick actions saved Mr Deeming's life."

Chairman of the magistrates Mr Antony Cook said: "We realise this has been traumatic for you and those around you. However this was a premeditated burglary and a serious offence which could merit a custodial sentence.

"However we have decided not to pursue that course on this occasion."