Homeless burglar jailed for more than three years after latest crime spree

A THIEF has been sent down for 40 months after his latest burglary spree which included a raid in Christchurch.

The jailing of Peter Evans, of no fixed abode, prompted the county’s police force to urge homeowners to put security measures in place to frustrate such offenders.

Bournemouth Crown Court heard 29-year-old Evans targeted homes in daylight in Bournemouth and Poole in July and August, stealing laptops, jewellery and watches.

During the first incident he was challenged by the occupants – who seized a blue bag from him – and he fled the scene.

The defendant was identified after his DNA was detected and Dorset Police launched a manhunt. Evans had links to the New Forest and Christchurch, and months before had been released on licence from a five-year prison sentence for burglary offences.

Eventually Evans was located at an address in Bournemouth in October and arrested.

In court, Evans pleaded guilty to two burglary charges and another of attempted burglary. He asked for two other burglary offences be taken into consideration – one committed at a home in Hinton Wood Avenue, Christchurch.

Detective Constable Andrew Burley, of Dorset Police’s Priority Crime Team, said: “Through CCTV inquiries and forensic examinations, we were able to identify Evans as being responsible for these offences and I am glad that, following a public appeal to locate him, we were able to bring him before the court.

“We appreciate the disturbing effects it can have on homeowners to have their property invaded by burglars such as Evans and I would urge residents to make sure they take appropriate security measures to ensure they are not vulnerable to these offenders."

For advice on home protection visit www.dorset.police.uk/help-advice-crime-prevention/home-property-belongings/protect-your-home/.