Burglar jailed after capture with tools

A Kirkby man has been jailed for four months after being stopped on his way to commit burglary.

Steven John Roberts (37), of Southwell Road, pleaded guilty to going equipped for the offence at Mansfield Magistrates’ Court on Thursday last week.

He was sentenced to 16 weeks in prison.

The court heard how the previous day two plain clothed officers were on patrol when they spotted Roberts cycling dressed in black and carrying a big bag.

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The officers attempted to carry out a stop and search using their warrant cards but Roberts shouted ‘no way’ and cycled around them.

They pursued him and when he lost control near a fence he was detained and arrested.

Roberts did not have the bag with him, having thrown it as he cycled.

But after a search of the area near the fence the officers discovered the bag, containing screwdrivers, wire clippers, a large iron bar, butane burner, gloves, hats, torch, spanner and a saw. Roberts was then arrested.

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Andy Clarke, Neighbourhood Policing Inspector for Ashfield Nort, said: “This was an excellent example of patrolling officers using their initiative as well as their stop and search powers.

“Clearly Roberts was intending to commit an offence that night but thanks to the officers actions we have one less victim today.

“I hope this sentence sends out a message that Nottinghamshire Police treat burglary very seriously and offenders can expect to be located and sent to prison.“