Burglar chased out of parochial house by PP

Burglar chased out of parochial house by PP

18 July 2012 - by David Telford

A PARISH priest was confronted by an intruder who gained access to the Parochial House in Downpatrick last Saturday morning.

Canon Sean Rogan was asleep at his St. Patrick’s Avenue home when he was woken by the intruder who opened his bedroom door just after 6am.

The man — who wasn’t wearing a disguise — is believed to have gained access to the Parochial House by climbing over a wall at the rear of the building.

It’s understood he then climbed on top of a wheelie bin and scaled a drainpipe to enter the house on the first floor via a bathroom window which was open.

Canon Rogan explained he got out of bed when the intruder came into his room and ushered him down the stairs and out through a side door.

“I was quite shocked, but the intruder made no attempt to get involved in a struggle. Once I managed to get him outside he shouted a number of obscenities at me before walking away,” the priest explained.

Canon Rogan revealed the door of the Parochial House he ushered the intruder out through had closed behind him, which left the priest stranded outside.

He continued: “I started to make my way to a keyholder who lives nearby when a local businessman, Alan Telford, came along and very kindly helped me get a key so I could return home.

“Once I was back at the Parochial House I contacted the police to report what happened and officers were with me within a matter of minutes. Police were most helpful and I am tremendously grateful for their assistance.”

Canon Rogan said he never felt in any danger during the weekend incident but admits that having reflected upon what happened, he realises it could have been more serious.

He added: “Thankfully it wasn’t. I came to no harm and am okay.”