A HEARTLESS vandal who went on a car keying spree along the road where he lives has avoided jail.

Liam Bennett recklessly damaged multiple vehicles on a residential street in Widnes near to his family home and told his defence barrister he had no idea why he decided to do it.

The 24-year-old attended Warrington Magistrates Court for sentencing last Tuesday after pleading guilty to four counts of criminal damage to property.

Elizabeth Brown, prosecuting, outlined the facts of the case, telling the court that police were called to reports of an incident on Chetwood Drive, Widnes, on August 15.

A resident reported a man outside their address who had ‘damaged several cars’.

It was heard how Bennett had been seen taking an object out of his pocket – a key – and dragged it across four vehicles.

The damaged vehicles were owned by his neighbours and included two Range Rovers, a black Ford and a grey Ford.

Before this incident the 24-year-old has had no previous convictions.

Ms Brown read out a victim impact statement made by one of the owners of the vehicles.

Within the statement the resident said: “Since the incident I have noticed that I am more on edge at home.

“When I am at home, I feel like I cannot relax. I had my personal property damaged. I should be able to leave my car safely outside my house.

“I have concerns that this man will continue this behaviour. I have lived at this address for 22 years and me and my wife have considered moving house because of this incident.”

He added: “I should not have to be put in this situation.”

Defending Bennett, Mr Leaver said his client was a person of ‘good character’ and suffers with his mental health.

“He had been drinking very heavily at the time of the incident,” he explained. “He does not know why he went out and damaged those cars.”

Referring to Bennetts work situation, Mr Leaver disclosed that his client ‘hopes to go back to work as a carer’.

“Working may help him to get out more and not spend the days drinking alcohol,” he added.

Sentencing, chair of the bench Carol Wesley handed Bennett a 12-month community order which included him attending 25 rehabilitation requirement days and paying a fine of £100 to each of the four victims – totalling to £400.

A victim surcharge was also issued of £114.