Broadbridge Heath burglar jailed for break-in after prison release

Ashley Symes, 48, of Heath Close, broke into a house in Tower Road, Faygate, on January 25 and stole jewellery, according to Sussex Police.

The offence occurred while he was still on licence after his release part way through a previous sentence for burglary.

His conviction is part of Operation Magpie, launched by police to tackle burglary across the county.

Detective inspector Dave Wardley-Wilkins said: “Symes has been committing crime for more than 30 years and now has 49 convictions for theft and burglary.

“He is just one of the great results the Magpie team have had over the last few weeks.

“A number of people have been charged with burglary just days after homes were broken into which shows the effort and resources that we are putting into catching and convicting those who try to make residents’ lives a misery.”

Anyone with any information about burglaries can call 101 or email [email protected]. For crime prevention advice visit www.sussex.police.uk.

If you see or hear a burglary taking place call 999 immediately.