Carlisle Burglar Jailed for Series of Offences Across City
Serial offender sentenced to three years after targeting homes, sheds and vehicles in early 2024 crime spree
Last updated 15th Apr 2025
A man has been jailed for three years following a string of burglaries and thefts across Carlisle.
David Kirkup, 27, of no fixed address, was sentenced at Carlisle Crown Court on April 14 for a series of offences including burglary, theft from a vehicle, possession of a bladed article, and assault on an emergency worker.
The court heard how Kirkup’s crime spree began on January 6 this year, when police were alerted to suspicious activity on Hasell Street. CCTV footage showed a man climbing into a garden, and the resident later reported a grey bike stolen from a shed.
In the early hours of the following day, January 7, officers were approached by residents of another nearby home who discovered their back door insecure and items missing — including a Makita maintenance kit, bottles of whisky and wine, and a handbag containing cash and bank cards.
Police enquiries led officers to Kirkup’s residence, where they found clothing matching the CCTV footage and several stolen items linked to the incidents.
The court also heard about further offences committed on January 19. At a home on Buchanan Road, an occupant heard their back door slam and discovered a wood-cutting axe was missing.
That same evening, Kirkup was arrested after a member of the public reported a man carrying an axe and trying door handles along Upperby Road.
Following the arrest, police were informed of a theft from a vehicle on the same road — a toolbox was taken, but later recovered.
Detective Constable Emma Barker of Cumberland CID said:“ Being burgled can be incredibly traumatic. We are committed to working with communities to bring offenders to justice.”
She added: “We continue to target burglars with Operation Themis.”
Operation Themis is Cumbria Constabulary’s dedicated campaign focused on tackling burglary and protecting residents from the emotional and financial impacts of such crimes.