Bradley John Russell, 36, of Kinghorne Street appeared before Magistrate Dr Gabriel Fleming in Nowra Local Court on Monday, pleading not guilty.

Police said between 8.50am and 9.15am on September 30 last year he attempted to break into a dwelling, a secure garage attached to a Purdie Crescent address in Nowra.

The court heard he attempted to gain access to the garage, with the intent to steal a motorbike that was inside.

Court documents stated he was interrupted by a contract gardener who was working at the property.

Police were called and located the man on the southern side of the garage.

He claimed he was “at the wrong house”.

While talking to police, officers noticed a screwdriver coming out of the right hand pocket of his pants.

The defendant allegedly said “it was to fix his bike”.

Police searched the man and discovered a pair of rubber gloves, a long handled screwdriver and a pair of pliers.

Magistrate Fleming found the matter proven and sentenced him to five months’ imprisonment from August 31.

He also pleaded not guilty to a charge of possessing house breaking implements, which was withdrawn and dismissed.