'Opportunistic' West Sussex thief jailed for burgling elderly people's homes
The 20-year-old pleaded guilty to a string of incidents last year
A man who burgled the homes of elderly residents in West Sussex has been jailed.
Jack Heslip, of Woodlands Road in East Grinstead, pleaded guilty to six counts of burglary at homes in the town last August and September when he appeared at Lewes Crown Court on Wednesday (January 6th).
The 20-year-old also admitted to one charge of attempted burglary and two counts of possession of cannabis and has been sentenced to 40 months' custody.
The court heard that Heslip burgled homes in the areas of Sandy Lane, Holtye Road, Quarry Rise, Copse Close and Lewes Road.
On most occasions, the residents were at either at home or in their gardens when he broke in.
Sometime he was disturbed by the occupants. He stole cash and food and drink.
Detective Inspector Cheryl Lewendon of Sussex Police said:
"Heslip carried out a spree of opportunist burglaries at the homes of elderly vulnerable residents and stole from them.
"He has breached court orders in the past and we are pleased that the courts have recognised his criminal behaviour and given him a custodial sentence."