TWO MEN who stole phones from a hospice have been sentenced this week.

Kyle Hill, aged 32, of Oxford Road, Reading, and Duane Stevens, aged 25, of Alan Place, Reading, were sentenced in Reading Crown Court on Thursday, July 23, after the pair stole phones from a local hospice.

ALSO READ: In full: PC Andrew Harper's widow writes letter to PM following manslaughter verdict

The incident took place on October 15, 2019, in Libenrood Road, Reading when Hill and Stevens entered the building, where they distracted the staff, entered a ward and stole a mobile phone from a patient's room while they were unconscious.

Once asked to leave by staff, Stevens then took another mobile phone from the reception desk.

Hill was sentenced to two years and four months’ imprisonment after pleading guilty to one count of burglary (dwelling) and one count of burglary (non-dwelling).

Stevens was sentenced to 12 weeks’ imprisonment after pleading guilty to one count of burglary (non-dwelling).

ALSO READ: READING: Indecent exposure near McDonalds on Oxford Road

Investigating officer Detective Constable Adele Taylor, based at Reading police station, said: “The sentences that both defendants have received are a great result and a comfort to the victims.

"This was a disgusting crime committed against a vulnerable man.

"The victim sadly passed away a few days after the incident and this is not something that his family should have had to deal with while spending their last few days with him.

"These incidents will never be tolerated in our communities and we remain committed to ensuring that offenders are brought to justice."