Two Albanian burglars have been sentenced to 56 months imprisonment each for orchestrating a sophisticated break-in spree across Cheshire, which included targeting the home of former Aston Villa and Brentford footballer Scott Hogan.
Sophisticated operation uncovered
Denis Puka, aged 28, and Erisjan Laska, aged 29, alongside a third unidentified accomplice, equipped themselves with professional-grade masks, tools, and walkie-talkies to conduct a series of planned burglaries last year. The group meticulously booked an Airbnb property in Warrington to serve as their operational base, from which they launched their criminal activities across the county.
Footballer's family terrorised
Among their seven targeted properties was the family home of Scott Hogan, the 33-year-old professional footballer currently playing for MK Dons, with previous stints at Aston Villa, Brentford, and Birmingham City. On the evening of 7th June, Hogan was abruptly awakened around 11:30pm by torchlight penetrating his bedroom window.
Prosecutor Nardeen Nemat detailed the chilling incident: "The defendants scaled the garden fence, with one climbing onto another's shoulders to reach the bedroom window via trellising. Hogan observed three males on the ground before giving chase, though they managed to escape."
The attempted burglary occurred while Hogan's pregnant wife and young daughter were present in the house, creating what the footballer described as "many sleepless nights full of stress and anxiety" during court proceedings.
Widespread property targeting
The criminal trio's operation spanned multiple locations between 5th and 7th June, beginning with two addresses on 5th June where they gained entry to one property and thoroughly ransacked every room except the occupied bedroom. Although unsuccessful in stealing items during these initial attempts, their persistence continued the following night with targets in Grappenhall and Knutsford.
Their efforts finally yielded results at a Northwich mansion where absent homeowners on holiday provided the opportunity to steal Breitling and Rolex watches valued at approximately £9,000.
Investigation and sentencing
Police investigation led to the recovery of the group's Seat Leon vehicle from a Warrington housing estate over a week later, containing crucial evidence including mobile phones, clothing worn during the burglaries, tools, and three false registration plates used to conceal their movements.
Sentencing the pair at Chester Crown Court, Judge Steven Everett emphasised the calculated nature of their crimes: "What is clear is that this was a sophisticated, well-planned conspiracy. Each of you should understand the sheer devastation you caused by your selfish and despicable acts."
While no items were taken from Hogan's property, the footballer has since implemented enhanced security measures to protect his family following the traumatic experience. The case highlights growing concerns about organised burglary operations targeting affluent residential areas across Cheshire and the psychological impact on victims.
