A family from Erfurt in central Germany got a nasty shock on Sunday when they returned home to find a would-be burglar asleep on their couch.

Local police said the alleged offender forced his way into the house overnight and collected the valuables he was apparently intending to steal.

But instead of making a speedy getaway with the booty, he curled up on the sofa in the yoga room and took a nap.

A statement from police said the 40-year-old suspect was spending Sunday night in custody "in order to prevent health-endangering sleep deprivation."

They alleged he was under the influence when he fell asleep mid-burglary.

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