Prolific distraction burglar jailed

4:28pm Friday 25th April 2008

Comments (0)   Have your say »

A prolific distraction burglar who targeted victims in Ashtead and Epsom has been jailed.

Albert Jack Smith, 22, formerly from Betchworth, pleaded guilty to four burglaries and was sentenced to three years in jail on Wednesday.

"He gained his victims’ trust in order to carry out these wicked crimes and I hope his sentence goes some way to reassure the community that Surrey Police will always take action to bring offenders to justice."

Detective Constable Dion O’Shea

Smith pleaded guilty to committing four burglaries last year in Darcy Place, Ashtead, on December , Sunnybank Epsom and Wyeths Road, Epsom, both on November 24, and one on November 9, in London Road, Epsom.

His victims were aged between 67 and 83.

Detective Constable Dion O'Shea, the investigating officer, said: "Albert Smith specifically targeted elderly and vulnerable members of our community. He gained his victims' trust in order to carry out these wicked crimes and I hope his sentence goes some way to reassure the community that Surrey Police will always take action to bring offenders to justice.

"Surrey Police is working hard to make the elderly and vulnerable aware of the methods used by distraction burglars, but we need the community to work with us. I would urge carers, friends, family and neighbours to please look out for those who are vulnerable and together we can ensure those most at risk from these despicable crimes are safe and feel safe."