Prolific Brighton and Hove burglar jailed after summer crime spree
David Mann admitted 14 offences including burglary, theft and fraud
A prolific burglar and thief has been jailed following a string of offences across Brighton and Hove.
David Mann, 45, of Grand Parade, Brighton, was sentenced to 28 months in prison at Lewes Crown Court on Friday, 28th August.
He pleaded guilty to seven offences, and while in custody admitted to a further seven, which were also taken into consideration at his sentencing.
A summer of offending
Mann burgled a home in Lorna Road, Hove, in the early hours of 27th June after scaling scaffolding and forcing his way through a bathroom window.
He made off with jewellery and electronics.
Following a report to police the next day, CCTV enquiries led to a person, later identified as Mann, being spotted leaving the area.
On 28th June, Mann entered a health store in Brighton and filled his pockets with around £200 worth of products before leaving without paying.
On 12th July, he entered a student housing building in Baker Street, Brighton, and, seizing an opportunity when the reception counter was briefly unattended, leant over the desk, stole an iPad and left.
On 14th July, a vehicle in the unloading bay at the rear of The Brighton Centre was targeted by Mann, who stole the victim's mobile phone along with other items from the cab.
CCTV showed him approaching the vehicle and later leaving the area with stolen items in his possession.
On 20th July, a purse was reported stolen from a home in Wilbury Road, Hove.
The elderly victim and a family member initially thought the purse may have been mislaid, but enquiries with their bank showed unauthorised transactions had been made at a nearby cash machine and at an off licence in central Brighton.
CCTV showed Mann approaching the building and travelling in the direction of the ATM he used in attempts to withdraw cash.
Arrest and charges
During the investigation, with assistance from the Brighton Crime Reduction Partnership, Mann was identified as a suspect in all of the incidents.
On 30th July, with the help of Brighton security officers, he was arrested for a series of offences.
A search led to the discovery of a multitool, a torch and metal bars, and he was further arrested on suspicion of going equipped for burglary.
The Crown Prosecution Service authorised seven charges against Mann, including two counts of burglary, burglary other than a dwelling, theft from a shop, fraud by false representation, theft from a motor vehicle, and going equipped for burglary.
He appeared at Brighton Magistrates' Court on 31st July and was remanded into custody.
Police reaction
Detective Constable James Botting, who led the case, said: "Mann had zero regard for the many people he impacted during this period of offending.
"He stole a number of items, including victims' jewellery, some of which held sentimental value and can never be replaced.
"He also and broke into people's homes, a place where they should feel most secure.
"We thank the many victims and witnesses who have provided vital pieces of information, footage, and other evidence, making it impossible for Mann to deny his involvement and to help bring his series of offending to an end."