A burglar has been sentenced to three years in prison after admitting a string of burglaries, thefts and frauds around Bedford.
Josh Lavell burgled a house in Greenfield, and several shops in Bromham stole a handbag from Towers Health Club in Bedford, and used bank cards he had taken.
He also stole bikes and tools in separate attacks in Clapham and Bedford.
However, in each of the cases, Lavell, 24, was captured on CCTV and recognised by police officers.
On 2 February, he was spotted in Bedford town centre by council CCTV operators. They notified the police, who arrested Lavell.
At Luton Crown Court, Lavell, of no fixed address, admitted five charges of burglary, two charges of theft and two charges of fraud.
He was sentenced to a total of three years in prison.
Detective Constable Andrew Boston of Bedfordshire Police’s specialist residential burglary unit, Operation Maze, said, “Lavell has a long history of offending, so it’s good to have him off the streets.
“We are committed to attending every burglary that takes place in Bedfordshire and will continue to target prolific offenders.
“This case particularly shows the value of CCTV and doorbell footage. It really can help us secure convictions.
“It is also an opportunity for us to highlight measures residents can take which may help deter burglars.”
