Prolific burglar jailed for car and diamond thefts

Kieron Stuart Robert Long admitted the charges at Northampton Crown Court

A prolific house burglar has been jailed for four years and six months after admitting 13 charges.

Kieron Stuart Robert Long targeted homes in Northampton and one in Milton Keynes, and during one incident stole thousands of pounds worth of gold watches, diamond rings and earrings.

The 39-year-old, from Balfour Close, Northampton, was sentenced at Northampton Crown Court on Friday.

Det Insp Liam O'Neill said he was a "prolific burglar who has caused untold upset and trauma to his victims".

Northamptonshire Police said he stole from various homes in the Kingsthorpe and Hardingstone areas of Northampton and one in Oceans Close in Milton Keynes.

In Tate Grove on January 26, Long smashed a glass panel to get into a home and stole valuable jewellery.

Then two days later, he got in through a bathroom window in Hellidon Close and stole car keys and the owner's red Ford car.

Three days later he took a black Audi car from a home in the town.

He admitted offences including burglary, theft, attempted burglary and car theft.

Mr O'Neill said the investigation was "testament to the hard work and dedication" of the force's burglary team.

"The sentencing may never be enough for the victims but will hopefully give Long time to reflect and also help provide reassurance to the community," he added.