A prolific offender who burgled four care homes, stealing cash and charity boxes, has been jailed.
Luke Banner, 30, of Spencer Road, Emsworth in Hampshire, had already been convicted 20 time for 65 offences, when he went on to commit four more burglaries - three on the same day.
He was identified through CCTV and fingerprints, by police who have become familiar with the prolific offender.
On 22 May, he stole a charity box belonging to the air ambulance service from Homeshore House in Sutton Road, Seaford; a cash box belonging to the care home from Hometye House in Claremont Road, Seaford; and a cash box belonging to a greetings card company from Sheldon House in Eastern Road, Brighton.
Then on 6 June, he stole a charity box belonging to the RNLI from Nevill Lodge in Rowe Avenue, Peacehaven.
The amount of cash stolen is believed to be small change, although the exact amount is unknown.
Following enquiries, Banner was arrested and charged with four counts of burglary with intent to steal.
He pleaded guilty to all four offences in court on August 20th and was sentenced at Lewes Crown Court on Friday, October 1st to three years’ imprisonment.
The seriousness of his crimes and previous offending history was taken into consideration.
Investigating officer, PC David Wilkinson, of Eastbourne Investigations, said:
“Banner has an extensive history of similar offences, and thanks to the cooperation of all four victims we were able to arrest him and bring him to justice.
“I would urge all businesses and residents to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity to police.”
For advice on how to keep your property safe and secure, see our crime prevention page here.
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