Christen William Jones imprisoned for attempted burglary of off-duty police officer, claims it was a mistake

An Albany man with a “prolific” criminal history that is “littered with burglary after burglary” has been sentenced to 14 months in prison after he tried to burgle the house of a senior police officer. Christen William Jones, 53, appeared in Albany Magistrates Court via video link from Albany Regional Prison on Thursday, charged with attempted home burglary, obstructing public officers, and assaulting public officers. Police prosecutor Sgt Mike Russell told the court that early on December 2, 2023, Jones tried to break into the home of police prosecutor Warrick Walker. Sgt Walker woke to the rattling of doorknobs and went to investigate. Finding Jones trying to break into his home, Sgt Walker told him he was an off-duty police officer and that he was arresting him for attempted burglary. Jones resisted the arrest, wrestling Sgt Walker to the ground several times as they walked to the Albany police station. Jones broke free and was arrested a short time later on Stirling Terrace. Sgt Walker suffered scratches and contusions to his face and body. Jones, who represented himself, said he had been released from a 21-month sentence five days before the incident and was at Sgt Walker’s home because he was chasing someone and got the wrong house. “I was chasing down my so-called friend who had stolen my wallet, which had basically my whole dole check,” he said. “I chased him up to (Sgt Walker’s) house but didn’t know there was another house at the back which is where he went. “I just wanted my money back. I don’t know (Sgt Walker), I’ve never been to his house.” Jones expressed remorse but said he was not aware that Sgt Walker was a police officer until his arrest on Stirling Terrace. Sgt Russell urged the magistrate to consider more prison time. “There is a prolific history of offences here, his record is littered with burglary after burglary,” he said. “The fact he was only released five days prior to being caught at the victim’s house trying to commit another burglary speaks for itself. “Fortunately, this was not a vulnerable victim. “There has to be some protection for the community from this man, as the only time he doesn’t offend is when he’s in prison.” Police dropped a fourth charge of escaping from lawful custody due to Jones’ confusion that he was being arrested. Magistrate Erin O’Donnell said she did not believe Jones’ claim that Sgt Walker did not identify himself as a police officer. Ms O’Donnell also noted the offender’s lengthy record. “We have a long list of dishonesty offences, and this is yet another example of the same kind of offending,” she said. “Due to your history, it’s perhaps difficult to accept your given reason for being there. “You don’t get any credit for your history — it doesn’t aggravate the current offending but does put it into context.” Jones was sentenced to 14 months imprisonment, backdated without parole to December 3, 2023.