Thief jailed for dozens of crimes over four months

Paul Priestly was sentenced at Lincoln Crown Court on Thursday

A thief who carried out more than 80 crimes in the space of four months has been jailed for 30 months.

Lincolnshire Police said Paul Priestly committed thefts from vehicles in the Drummond Road and surrounding area of Skegness, "blighting the community", between July and November 2024.

The 46-year-old, who breached 11 criminal behaviour orders during the same period, was sentenced at Lincoln Crown Court on Thursday.

Priestly, of Bourne Road, Alford, admitted all charges.

He was charged with nine counts of theft from a motor vehicle, two counts of possession of amphetamine, 11 breaches of a criminal behaviour order, two counts of vehicle interference, and possession of cannabis.

The court also took into consideration 60 other offences, including 37 thefts from a motor vehicle and 23 counts of vehicle interference.

Sgt Rhys Cordy said: "A vast number of these offences were committed on unlocked cars where Mr Priestley has 'taken a chance' and been able to steal from them.

"It's so important to lock your car when leaving it, and to keep any valuables out of sight – please try to take the time so that you don't fall victim to crime as well."

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