Serial Burglar Gets Up To Life In Prison In Sullivan County

LIBERTY, NY — A Sullivan County serial burglar could be spending the rest of his life in prison.

Brian P. Conaty, acting district attorney of Sullivan County, announced Monday that Ralph Sparks, 56, of Liberty, was sentenced to 15 years to life in state prison after being convicted of second-degree burglary, a felony.

Sparks’ sentence Friday came after a week-long jury trial in which he represented himself in court.

The jury found that he unlawfully entered a residence in the village of Liberty and stole jewelry and money. The burglary occurred in broad daylight while the victim was home, according to law enforcement.

Conaty said that, following the trial, he requested a hearing to determine whether Sparks would be eligible for lifetime incarceration based on his nine prior felony convictions, including seven of which were for burglaries.

At the end of the hearing, the court authorized a sentence of 15 years to life.

Conaty said that the traumatization that occurs after the sanctity of one’s home is invaded by another person is deep and long-lasting.

“Victims of these crimes are often left without a sense of security,” he said. “My office remains committed to ensuring that the residents of Sullivan County know that they will be protected both on the streets as well as in their homes.”

Village of Liberty Police Chief Steven D’Agata said Sparks chose to violate the sanctity and security of the victim’s home by brazenly burglarizing the home in broad daylight.

“The victim in this case was home during the commission of the burglary and will have to forever live with the loss of the feeling of safety and well-being that we should all have in our own homes,” he said.