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NSW: Alleged burglar arrested after falling through ceiling


22 Jan 2009 3:12 PM

SYDNEY, Jan 22 AAP - An alleged burglar broke his arm after falling through the ceiling of a Newcastle house, shocking a family of seven, NSW police say.

The man fell almost four metres after crashing through the ceiling of the home in Brunker Rd at Broadmeadow about 5.20pm (AEDT) on Wednesday, police said in a statement.

A 41-year-old man, his 37-year-old wife and five children aged between five and 14, who were home at the time, took the alleged burglar into the backyard after calling police and paramedics.

Officers believe the alleged intruder entered the home through a manhole in an external laundry.

He remains under guard in Newcastle's John Hunter Hospital where he was to undergo surgery on a broken left arm.

Police searched the roof cavity of the home, allegedly recovering a number of items including a knife.

The scene has been secured for forensic analysis and investigations are continuing.

Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.