A night-time house breaker who was collared by his victim told police the man had dragged him in off the street, a court heard.
Perry Wells, 23, had smashed his way into the property in Church through the front window at 3am. The householder was awoken by the noise, went downstairs and took hold of the defendant – who claimed he had been let in by somebody else.
Burnley Crown Court was told how Wells, who had been drinking alcohol, was said to have gone on a crime spree in 2009, after turning to drink when his mother became ill.
The defendant of Cliff Street, Rishton, admitted burglary in September 2009 and failing to surrender to custody and was locked up for 12 months.
Sarah Statham, prosecuting, said the victim found the defendant in the front room. His wife called the police and her husband was still holding onto Wells when officers arrived.
Various house and car keys had been taken from other rooms and put on the sofa.
The defendant was arrested and when he was questioned, he claimed he had been out on the street when the victim dragged him into the house.
David Ryan, for Wells, said he had addressed his alcohol problem when he recognised back in 2009 he was committing a series of offences.
Mr Ryan said the defendant had been diagnosed with Crohns disease. He had a long-term partner and a full-time job as a stonemason, which he would lose if he was sent to prison.
The solicitor continued: "This young man is motivated to make a success of his life and he is somebody who wishes to change his life."
Mr Ryan added the defendant was extremely remorseful, the offence was not premeditated or sophisticated, he had no record for burglary and had never been in custody before.
Sentencing, Judge Beverley Lunt said the victim had the courage to detain Wells, but Wells lied to the householder and the police.
She continued: "Anybody who commits a burglary like that has to know they are going to go to prison for it. There is no alternative."
