Joel Lawrence, who has 160 convictions for 158 previous offences dating back to 1987, climbed into a property in Bowthorpe Road through a bathroom window but was spotted by the householder who had just returned home.

Norwich Crown Court heard the victim was "shocked" and "worried" to see the 52-year-old in his home as the burglar "came through the window".

Norwich Crown Court (Image: Peter Walsh, Newsquest) Samantha Lowther, prosecuting, said the victim quickly walked out the house but was followed by Lawrence who said "I'm not going to hurt you".

The victim........

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