Posted on Monday 23 January 2023
A three-strike burglar who targeted an elderly man's home on Christmas Eve has been jailed.
John Kay broke into the property in Derwent Cottages, in Consett, in the early hours of December 24, 2021.
The elderly homeowner woke up to banging downstairs and immediately alerted police.
The victim, who was understandably shaken, stayed on the phone to the call handler whilst officers were dispatched on an immediate response.
But within minutes, Kay had grabbed a set of car keys from the gentleman’s dining table, jumped into his car, and drove off.
An investigation was launched and Kay was identified thanks to information received from the public.
The 44-year-old was arrested on suspicion of burglary and theft of a motor vehicle, charged and remanded into custody.
He appeared at Durham Crown Court on Friday (January 20) and was sentenced to 32 months in prison.
Detective Inspector Daniel Peacock, from Consett CID said: “This was a terrifying ordeal for the elderly victim who was understandably shaken and upset by the incident.
“I am pleased the team managed to track down the offender and get the justice the victim deserved.
“I would like to encourage the public to report incidents like this, we have a dedicated team who are here to listen and take action.”
Anyone who would like to report a non-urgent crime is asked to contact 101 or report online via our Live chat function: https://www.durham.police.uk/.../101.../101-Live-Chat.aspx
In an emergency, always dial 999.