Two criminals have been sentenced to prison for a series of frightening burglaries targeting a footballer and a family. Denis Puka, 28, and Erisjan Laska, 29, received 56-month jail terms each for breaking into seven properties. Among their victims was League Two striker Scott Hogan, who was awakened in the night by a flashlight directed at his face.

The burglars, along with an unidentified accomplice, conducted break-ins over three consecutive nights last June in Cheshire. They utilized a Seat Leon with counterfeit plates for their criminal activities, which Judge Steven Everett described as a sophisticated and well-planned operation. The thieves even booked an Airbnb in Warrington to serve as a strategic base for their raids.

Equipped with masks, tools, and walkie-talkies, the criminals targeted various homes, including the residence of footballer Scott Hogan. Despite no items being stolen during the break-in at Hogan’s home, the incident prompted him to enhance his security measures due to the stress and anxiety caused to his family.

The burglars struck multiple properties in Blackpool, Grappenhall, Knutsford, and Northwich, managing to steal valuable watches from a Northwich mansion. They were apprehended after their vehicle, the Seat Leon, was found in Warrington containing incriminating evidence.

During sentencing, Judge Everett emphasized the severity of the criminals’ actions, highlighting the fear and distress caused to their victims. Laska, who has a previous conviction for minor driving offenses, was criticized for minimizing his involvement in the crimes. Puka, on the other hand, was portrayed as a young man with a clean record and positive contributions to society.

Cheshire Police Constable Simon Gibson commended the efforts of law enforcement in capturing the burglars, emphasizing that Puka and Laska underestimated the authorities. Both individuals pleaded guilty to seven counts of conspiracy to commit burglary during an earlier court appearance.