Four years in prison for Neath burglar

A Neath burglar has been sent to prison after he was arrested by police and found in possession of money and a Terry’s Chocolate Orange which he had stolen from his elderly victim.

Officers found John Rees Dobbs, of Sandfields, Port Talbot, walking in Neath town centre during the early hours of 15th April following a reported burglary at Brookfield in Neath.

The 42-year-old from Port Talbot was stopped and when he was searched had property which he had taken during the burglary which was reported only half an hour earlier.

Dobbs appeared at Swansea Crown Court yesterday where he was sentenced to four years in prison for this burglary and another three similar offences.

Detective Inspector Trudi Meyrick of Neath CID said:

“This was a particularly nasty burglary which happened while the victim, an 83-year-old woman, was asleep and was woken by the sound of a burglar in her home.

“Officers responded quickly to the incident and found the suspect in possession of the stolen items a short distance away.”

At this time of the year, with lighter nights and warmer weather, police are reminding residents to help in the fight against crime by taking simple steps to protect their home and property, such as ensuring windows and doors are not left open or unlocked.

DI Meyrick added:

“Whenever a burglary is reported we do everything we can to try and catch those responsible and give the best possible service to the victim.

“As well as raising awareness of crime prevention at this time of the year, we are also asking the communities to report suspicious behaviour. Burglars often walk the streets, looking out for open windows and trying door handles in the hope of gaining entry.

“With the public’s help, we can prevent incidents from happening and put burglars before the courts.”