Cambridge jewellery thief who attempted to break into safe left DNA at scene

A burglar from Cambridge who stole jewellery and attempted to break into a safe was caught after leaving his DNA at the scene.

Jonathan Brown broke into the rear of a property in Tavistock Road, Cambridge, while the owner was away.

The 43-year-old searched the house and stole jewellery from one of the bedrooms overnight on 19-20 May last year.

He also dragged a safe into the garden and attempted but failed to open it using a crowbar and spade he found in a shed.

Police were called when a neighbour noticed the property had been broken into and forensic examination found Brown’s DNA on the spade in the garden.

Brown, of Cam Causeway, Cambridge, admitted burglary and attempted burglary and was jailed for 21 months at Peterborough Crown Court on Tuesday (24 June).

The court heard how Brown had also previously attempted to burgle another property in Histon Road, Cambridge, on 29 April last year.

At about 7.30am he entered the rear garden of the home and dragged a cask iron table underneath the kitchen window. A woman inside the property heard the noise and shouted at Brown and he left on a bicycle.

His DNA was again found at the scene – this time on the garden table.

Det Con Andy Smith said: “The jewellery Brown stole was of great sentimental value to the victim and can never be replaced. To have it stolen was incredibly upsetting.

“We recognise the psychological, as well as financial, impact burglary can have on victims. We’re working tirelessly to tackle the issue and bring burglars before the courts.”