Man and Woman Sentenced for Aggravated Burglary in Ballyclare

A man and a woman from Belfast have been sentenced for their roles in a violent aggravated burglary in Ballyclare, Northern Ireland.

Sentencing Details

Paul Patterson, 44, and Andrea Wilson, 36, were both sentenced at Laganside Court today, Monday, 10th March 2025. Each received a prison term of eight years and six months, serving half in custody and the remainder on licence.

Details of the Ballyclare Burglary

The aggravated burglary took place on Sunday, 20th August 2023, in the Hillhead Road area of Ballyclare. Patterson and Wilson forced their way into a home, armed with a hatchet, and assaulted the male occupant. They then tied him up, struck him again, and ransacked the property before fleeing the scene.

While the victim did not suffer life-threatening injuries, police confirmed that the attack left him severely traumatised.

Criminal Convictions

Both offenders were previously convicted of:

• Aggravated burglary with intent to steal
• False imprisonment
• Attempted grievous bodily harm with intent
• Assault occasioning actual bodily harm
• Criminal damage

Police Statement & Public Safety Reminder

A police spokesperson stated that today’s sentencing reinforces law enforcement’s commitment to bringing violent offenders to justice and protecting the community.

Members of the public who believe they are victims of crime are urged to contact the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) via the non-emergency number 101.