Serial burglar in the East of England jailed
He broke into homes across counties
Last updated 8th May 2026
A serial burglar who smashed into homes across the East of England has been jailed.
Billy Swaley Smith admitted to two burglaries, before an investigation by Operation Converter forced him to admit to 20 further burglaries carried out across multiple counties.
Smith, aged 37, of Smockhill Close, Norwich, appeared at Ipswich Crown Court on Friday 8 May 2026.
He broke into homes across Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire, and Essex.
He now faces a jail sentence of 876 days.
Duncan Etchells, police staff supervisor for Op Converter said: “There was nothing sophisticated about these offences – he simply smashed his way into properties and stole anything he thought he could sell quickly for drugs.
“Burglary is by nature a very invasive crime which has a very real impact on victims who were left dealing with the damage and intrusion caused.
“This sentence sends a clear message that we will relentlessly pursue prolific offenders and bring them to justice. Hopefully this process brings some reassurance and closure to those who were targeted by this opportunistic offender."