Burglar joined by dog on crime spree

A burglar took his dog along on a month-long crime spree as he stole cars, electrical items, and high value jewellery from multiple homes.

James Evans, 42, approached a property in Whittlesey in the early hours of 22 February with his terrier and tried the front door handle.

The door was locked so he broke into the rear of the property, took the keys to a Seat Leon, and drove off with the dog.

Police spotted Evans in the stolen vehicle 45 minutes later and after a short pursuit he abandoned the car and ran away, leaving his dog behind, which was placed in a kennels until it was collected by a family member.

It came to light Evans had earlier burgled another property in Whittlesey, but had been disturbed after taking car keys, and then another nearby home where he stole a Volvo car.

He later abandoned the car but stole various items inside, including two pushchairs, a child's scooter, and a laptop.

Despite being on the run, Evans continued to burgle in Peterborough, as well as Boston and Crowland in Lincolnshire.

He stole figurines, alcohol, electrical items, two other vehicles, high value jewellery and cash.

Following a burglary in Boston, Evans left a black glove behind, with forensic analysis revealing his DNA.

The crime spree came to an end on 24 March when Evans broke into a property in Eye, where he stole a handbag containing £220.

Police were called and Evans was arrested nearby.

Evans, of no known address, admitted nine counts of burglary, three counts of theft and one of attempted burglary. He denied a second count of attempted burglary, and this was ordered to remain on file.

On Friday (1 May) at Huntingdon Crown Court he was jailed for five years and eight months.

DC Megan Sims said: “Evans is a prolific burglar who relentlessly stole from people until he was caught.

“Burglary can have a long-lasting psychological impact on victims, as well as the financial loss of stolen items. We’re committed to pursuing offenders and bringing them to justice.

“I’m pleased Evans has now answered for his crimes and been jailed.”

For burglary prevention advice visit the dedicated section of this website.

Photo: James Evans

Photo: James Evans's dog