'Prolific offenders' jailed after 44 burglaries
The men were both given four-year sentences at Exeter Crown Court
- Published
Two "prolific offenders" who carried out 44 burglaries of commercial premises around the UK have been jailed.
Exeter Crown Court heard how Andrew Holland, 36, of Truro Avenue, Torquay, and 34-year-old Jason Robbins, of Den Road, Teignmouth, raided garden centres, service stations, cafes, shops and other businesses between September 2024 and June this year.
Prosecutor Pip Harper said the pair stole £13,760 in cash and property valued at £15,790. They also caused £24,350 damage to the premises they burgled.
The men, who admitted a single charge of conspiracy to burgle, were both given four-year sentences and each received a two-year driving ban to come into effect when they leave prison.
The court heard they were caught using CCTV and phone evidence but DNA was also found on some of Holland's blood at one site and a discarded cigarette left by Robbins at another.
Judge James Patrick said the men were "prolific offenders" and carried out the burglaries in Devon and the North East and North West of England.
He added the burglaries involved significant planning and they also carried out raids a day after being arrested and bailed.
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