A MAN forced entry into a home before attacking the owner and stealing his money has been jailed.

Richard Todd, 54, of no fixed abode, pleaded guilty yesterday (Monday, November 30) to one count of robbery at Reading Crown Court.

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On January 18 this year, the victim, a man in his 60s, was asleep in his home at Wensley Road, Reading, when he was woken by a knock at the door.

As he answered, Todd pushed past him and punched him in the face.

He went to the victim's bedroom and stole loose change from his money box, estimated to be around $40 in cash, before he left the property.

The victim was left with bruising, but did not require hospital treatment.

Todd was sentenced to an extended prison term of 12 years.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Steve Parsons of the Priority Crime Team based at Reading police station, said: "Todd is a serial offender and this sentence reflects how seriously the courts take personal robbery.

"The victim had every right to feel safe in his own home, and the fact that he was punched at his own front door and was robbed of such a relatively small amount of cash, highlights the lengths Todd would go to in order to steal.

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"As an extended sentence was imposed, Todd will have to serve a minimum of eight years before he can apply for parole, and will have to serve the other four years on license, should the parole board be satisfied that he no longer presents a danger to the public.

"I am pleased that Todd has been brought to justice and that he will serve a considerable term of imprisonment as a result of this offence."