Burglary offender jailed after string of break-ins in Swaffham
Repeat offender sentenced to over three years after targeting homes and businesses, including assaults on emergency workers
Last updated 17th Jun 2026
A 43-year-old man has been sentenced to more than three years in prison following a series of burglaries and related offences in Swaffham.
Richard Duggan, of Lynn Road in Swaffham, was handed a prison term of three years and five months at Norwich Crown Court on 12 June 2026. He had pleaded guilty to burglary and was also convicted of three separate assaults on emergency workers. The court additionally ordered him to pay £228 in compensation and costs.
The case relates to an incident on 4 March 2025, when Duggan forced entry into a home on Shoemakers Lane by smashing a window and an internal door. Around £300 worth of jewellery was taken during the break-in.
Police later identified a suspect through CCTV footage captured in the area at the time. The clothing seen on the suspect was linked to items previously associated with Duggan, and he was arrested on 20 March 2025. Investigators also recovered clothing at the property, which was seized as evidence.
Duggan further admitted involvement in a second burglary, which was taken into account during sentencing. That offence occurred on 8 March 2025 at a business on London Street, where charity collection boxes, power tools, a dog harness and a safe were stolen.
As a repeat offender qualifying as a “third strike” burglar, he was subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of at least three years, resulting in the final custodial term of three years and five months.
Sgt Dan Shelley said: “This was a deliberate and damaging burglary that targeted both a home and a local business, causing distress and disruption to the victims. Duggan’s actions, including his assaults on emergency workers, show a continued disregard for the law and those working to protect the public.
“The sentence handed down reflects the seriousness of his offending and his status as a repeat burglar. We hope this outcome provides reassurance to the community that offenders of this nature will be held accountable.”