Burglar who targeted Norwich homes jailed

A man has been jailed for two years after admitting a string of offences including two burglaries.

Paul Carruthers, aged 44, of Northfields, Norwich forced his way into a property while the homeowner was on holiday on 3 April this year taking jewellery, perfume, vinyl records, cash, and bank cards.

He was forensically linked to the scene by fingerprints recovered during the investigation.

On 14 April he stole baked goods and prised open an honesty box at an unmanned cake shed but was seen and identified via doorbell footage.

Two days later he entered a house while the residents were in the back garden and stole a handbag containing a phone, cards, and cash.  Again, doorbell footage helped officers to identify him.

He was arrested and went on to admit two counts of burglary dwelling, two counts of fraud relating to the use of the cards, and one theft from shop (the bake shed).

He was further investigated by Op Converter and went on to admit to two more theft from shops on 17 April and 20 April.

Carruthers was serving a suspended sentence for retail theft at the time of the offences.

Appearing at Norwich Crown Court on Friday 12 June he was handed a two year jail sentence and ordered to pay a £187 victim surcharge.

Duncan Etchells, police staff supervisor for Operation Converter said: “This individual is a prolific offender who has repeatedly shown a disregard for the law and the livelihoods and property of others.

"His actions have had a significant impact and we hope that during his time in custody he will be able to access support and make changes to prevent further offending.”