Scott McPherson, of Close Street, Wallsend, pleaded guilty to three charges of entering land with intent to commit an indictable offence in Maitland Local Court yesterday.

Court documents said security was alerted to an unauthorised person in the yard of Ausgrid’s Maitland depot in Green Street, Rutherford, about 3.25am on April 25.

Police attended about 3.30am where security advised officers a man was inside.

McPherson had gained access to the compound through the back fence and made his way to an enclosed area that contained rolls of copper wire.

Police began a search and found McPherson wearing a black hoodie pulled over his head, a black cap and black pants.

He fled when officers told him to stop and dropped a small black bag containing a pair of wire strippers and a pair of yellow and red vice-grip pliers.

Police chased but lost sight of McPherson and began an extensive search of the area and checks showed he owned a green Mitsubishi Pajero found near the scene.

Officers attended his address on May 20 and left a message for McPherson to contact police.

The 43-year-old attended Waratah police station three days later where he admitted to the ­incident as well as another in March at Rutherford Cables. 

McPherson’s solicitor said his client was remorseful and aware that his behaviour was unlawful.

In sentencing, magistrate Sharon Crews described the matters as ­serious.

“This incident represents matters that are prevalent in this area, especially the Lower Hunter,” she said.

“The rolls of copper wire are a valuable commodity in the market.

“On three separate occasions you attended premises, the third one you were equipped with things that show you put in considerable thought.”

McPherson was sentenced to 18 months jail but will be eligible for parole in September next year.