Burglary accomplice completes boot camp, gets probation

A 20-year-old Johnson Lane man who successfully completed a regimental discipline camp after he pleaded guilty in a series of residential burglaries was sentenced Tuesday to probation.

District Judge Dave Gamble told Jacob Lacey he was proud the defendant had finished the six-month boot camp operated by the Nevada Department of Corrections.

Lacey said he wanted to join the military and had received information from a recruiter how to complete the enlistment process with his criminal record.

"I'm proud of you," Gamble said. "I hope you found a niche in life where you can do well. Thank you for honoring the opportunity you were given."

Lacey's codefendant, Kyle Liddicoat, 19, was sentenced Oct. 14, 2008, to up to 12 years in prison after he turned down an opportunity for the prison boot camp.

The pair was accused of committing burglaries that occurred July 7-16, 2008, at residences in Johnson Lane, Wildhorse and Stephanie Way. The suspects gained access through unlocked windows and doors while the victims slept.

Lacey was on the lam for four months before turning himself in.

Gamble sentenced him Tuesday to 16-48 months in prison, suspended, and placed him on five years probation.

He and Liddicoat are responsible for more than $82,000 restitution which Gamble ordered repaid at $300 a month.

He must abstain from drugs and alcohol and is subject to random search and seizure for controlled substances, alcohol and indicators of stolen property.

Lacey must perform 80 hours of community service. He was given credit for 206 days in custody.

Gamble ordered Lacey to stay away from Liddicoat and the victims.

He said Lacey could live with his parents who are next door to a victim, but ordered him "to turn your head the other way when you come out of that house."

Lacey said he was enrolled in school.

"I told Jacob I am very proud he completed the regimental discipline program," said Kris Brown, Lacey's attorney. "I've seen more people fail than complete it. He seems to be a completely different person."

Prosecutor Laurie Trotter concurred.

"I think he's demonstrated to us he can complete probation," Trotter said.