A MAN who was caught trying to break into a flat in Govanhill was trying to find somewhere to sleep.

Traian Rostas had just finished a three-day bus journey from Romania to Glasgow on the night of the offence on March 4, last year.

The 39-year-old appeared at Glasgow Sheriff Court after pleading guilty to attempted housebreaking.

The court heard: “At 9.20pm there was police officers in an undercover police car nearby. Officers saw three people climb over a garden fence and gain entry to the rear garden.

“Police followed behind them and they were seen walking into the common close and to the first floor.

“At that time, one of the other accused knocked on the flat door and there was no reply. The other two, including the accused, appeared to be keeping a watch downstairs however didn’t see the police.

“The other accused then put a crowbar under the door, and they started trying to force the door open. It was at that point the police ran up and apprehended all three. They were arrested and taken to the police station. They were all cautioned and charged. The accused replied, ‘we wanted to sleep’.”

Rostas’s solicitor explained that his client has a wife and seven children who all live in Romania.

He added: “At the time of the offence, he had just finished a three-day bus trip from Romania. If at liberty, he will be residing with his cousin on Dumbarton Road.

“The initial intentions were to find somewhere to sleep, however he accepts the circumstances.

“He is remorseful and apologetic. He has been remanded in custody since January 14 and is struggling to cope with prison. He accepts any disposal.”

The sheriff sentenced Rostas to 78 days in prison which was backdated to the day he was remanded - which meant he was released after his court appearance on Monday.