A WIRRAL mum spoke of her devastation during the trial of her drug addict son who burgled the family home and stole property from his own brother.

Liverpool Crown Court heard today that Ryan Kearns' mum was heartbroken at his behaviour and although she would always love him, if he continued on the path he had chosen "he was on his own."

Jailing Kearns for 28 months the Recorder of Liverpool, Judge Clement Goldstone, QC, said he had targeted his mother's home while the family was out and stole property from his 17-year-old brother to pay his drug debts.

"You had no concern whatsover for the distress and anguish you were causing her far less for how your brother would be affected by your selfishness and now you must pay a heavy price," he said.

Kearns has nine previous convictions and this latest burglary on April 4 this year meant that he faced an automatic prison sentence under the "three strikes" rule.

Derek Jones, prosecuting, told the court that Kearns had been thrown out of the family home in Bolton Road East, New Ferry, in March.

On the evening of April 4 his younger brother came home from college and found a back window had been smashed and the back door was open.

His bedroom door, which was kept locked, had been kicked open with such force the door frame was hanging off and his Play Station, four games and DVD box sets had been stolen.

Kearns was recognised from a neighbour's CCTV and the police were called by his mother.

He was arrested at The Bridge Project in Birkenhead and made no comment when interviewed.

In her victim impact statement the defendant's mum, Tracey Kearney, said that she had “always tried to instill that actions have consequences” and she was upset at the devastation he had caused.

"I cannot believe he stooped so low as to target his brother. There is no excuse what he has done this time. He has not only stolen from his brother but vandalised our home and taken our peace of mind."

She said that she had always tried to help and support him.

"I will always love him, he's our son but I cannot allow his actions to continue.

"He has made his choice and if this is the path he has chosen then he does so on his own."

Kearns, of Bridge Street, Birkenhead, pleaded guilty to burglary.

Frances Hertzog, defending, said that he was devastated at what he had done to his family and wants to rid himself of his drug addiction.